Two years ago, The Providence Center responded to Rhode Island’s growing number of homeless veterans—a startling 271 at the time—with the establishment of the Joyce House, a 12-unit apartment house in Providence dedicated to supporting those who have served our nation. In addition to housing, residents receive mental health and substance use services that help them acquire the skills needed to live independently in the community.

The program was funded in part by a grant from the Veterans Administration and by individual donors, corporations and foundations. Through the support of these partners, the Joyce House works to combat homelessness among veterans by increasing the skill level and income of veterans, reducing substance use and mental health symptoms and increasing community involvement. The Joyce House was named in honor of the late John Joyce, homeless advocate and Providence Center employee.

Thanks to your support, since 2013 the Joyce House has provided 27 homeless veterans with the safe, stable housing necessary live successfully in the community and make progress toward recovery:

• 100% of Joyce House residents have participated in life-skills education.
• 75% of residents received vocational services.
• 50% of residents were placed in jobs or attended school.
• 87.5% of residents have moved into independent housing.
  
  What Joyce House residents have to say:

“I have more stability which allows me to focus on other aspects of my life, like getting a job and permanent housing.”

“I have reconnected with my family after 10 years.”

“I was a soldier at heart. I always wanted to be a soldier, but my alcoholism had other plans. Now, I am sober, and I actually have some peace of mind.”