Lower Burrell councilman tapped for homeless veterans’ nonprofit with $4 million in grants

Lower Burrell Councilman Robert Hamilton has been named executive director of the Veterans Place of Washington Boulevard in East Liberty, an organization that helps homeless veterans.

Hamilton, 32, said he has had a deep passion for helping at-risk veterans. Hamilton served in the National Guard as a military police officer.

“It’s my obligation to help my fellow brothers and sisters who served, willing to give the ultimate sacrifice,” Hamilton said.

Recently, Veterans Place received $4 million in grants from the U.S. Department of Labor and the Veterans Administration for the three-year renewal of two major programs that support its service center, transitional housing, employment services and counseling.

About 70% of homeless veterans have substance abuse and mental health issues, according the National Coalition of Homeless Veterans.

Hamilton has worked at Veterans Place since 2015, starting as director of client services.

“Robert Hamilton’s first-hand knowledge brings a passion and dedication to the table that serves the organization extremely well,” said Dr. I. William Goldfarb, chairman of the board.

Established in 1996, Veterans Place serves homeless veterans in Allegheny, Butler and Washington counties, providing food, shelter, clothing and supportive services to encourage self-sufficiency.

The East Liberty nonprofit is one of only 15 homeless veterans’ programs in the country that provides street outreach and a drop-in service center. It owns 48 apartments and 13 townhouses for transitional housing. It also provides veterans help in recovering from mental health and substance abuse issues.

Additionally, Hamilton is co-chair of Allegheny County/Pittsburgh Veteran Homeless Boot Camp Committee to connect homeless veterans with stable housing. The committee is aligned with the national effort of addressing veteran homelessness.

Hamilton received the 2018 Salute Our Heroes Recognition from the Pittsburgh Steelers and other awards.

He is a graduate of the University of Pittsburgh with a bachelor’s degree in public service. He is completing a master’s degree in public policy and management from Pitt’s Graduate School of Public and International Affairs. He also holds a supervisor/manager certificate from Penn State University and a nonprofit management certificate from Pitt.

To learn more and to donate, visit the Veterans Place website, veteransplaceusa.org.