We help military & veteran families succeed.
Housing & Moving Costs
Eligible military and veteran families with children can receive housing and may receive support for moving costs when relocating to our campus in Eaton Rapids, MI.
View Our HomesEducation
Families can participate in job training, education programs, and life skills workshops to build a foundation for long-term independence.
Learn MoreCase Management
Families receive free access to professional case management and access to services to support stability and personal growth.
Learn MoreDaycare & School Age Programs
On-site accredited daycare and school age programs are provided at no cost to families living at the VFW National Home.
Learn MorePrograms for Residents
Explore the life-changing programs at the VFW National Home.
Scholarship Programs
Supporting the next step forward by helping participants continue their education and build a brighter future.
Financial Classes
Equipping residents with the knowledge and practical skills to manage money, build savings, reduce debt, and confidently prepare for independent living.
RAVE
Hands-on regenerative agriculture training with educational opportunities.
Heroes to Hives
Teaches veterans beekeeping while helping them build business skills, connect with nature, and join a supportive community.
Cup of Joe
A relaxed, come-and-go gathering where veterans can enjoy coffee, share stories, learn about resources, and connect with fellow servicemembers in a welcoming environment.
Guitars for Vets
Help veterans heal through music while building connection, camaraderie, and fellowship with fellow veterans.
Scholarship Programs
Supporting the next step forward by helping participants continue their education and build a brighter future.
Learn MoreFinancial Classes
Equipping residents with the knowledge and practical skills to manage money, build savings, reduce debt, and confidently prepare for independent living.
Learn MoreHeroes to Hives
Teaches veterans beekeeping while helping them build business skills, connect with nature, and join a supportive community.
Learn MoreCup of Joe
A relaxed, come-and-go gathering where veterans can enjoy coffee, share stories, learn about resources, and connect with fellow servicemembers in a welcoming environment.
Learn MoreGuitars for Vets
Help veterans heal through music while building connection, camaraderie, and fellowship with fellow veterans.
Learn MoreSuccess Stories
Hear from others that have found growth and success in our program.
Success Stories
Hear from others that have found growth and success in our program.
How we’ve helped others
Hear from a few that have found growth and achieved success in our program.
Next Steps
Qualify
Review the eligibility requirements and complete qualification form.
Start Your JourneyPlan
Once qualified, you will work with our team through the application and assessment process and plan the next steps in your journey.
Relocate
If approved, the team will help you plan your move to the VFW National Home in Eaton Rapids, MI and begin the program.
Frequently Asked Questions
Our support and services require one of the following.
- Unaccompanied tour or deployment
- Parent(s)/Guardian(s) with dependent child(ren)
- Single (with at least 50% custody) or Married
- Drilling National Guard & Reserve
- Honorably discharged, Active, Guard, or Reserve Veteran
- Surviving widow or widower with dependent child(ren)
- Parent(s)/Guardian(s) with dependent child(ren)
- Single (with at least 50% custody) or Married
- Applicant has a parent in the VFW or Auxiliary in good standing or, if deceased, in good standing at the time of death.
- Parent(s)/Guardian(s) with dependent child(ren)
- Single (with at least 50% custody) or Married
No, this is not an emergency shelter or an emergency placement program. Individuals must apply and be approved in order to participate in the program.
If you are a Veteran in need of immediate assistance, please contact the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at 1-877-424-3838 (available 24/7).
If you are experiencing a crisis, contact the Veterans Crisis Line by calling 988 and then pressing 1, or text 838255, or chat online at www.veteranscrisisline.net.
For more information about the Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) program, visit: https://www.va.gov/homeless/ssvf/index.html
For further support contact the Michigan Veteran’s Affairs Agency (MVAA) at: 1-800-MICH VET
Yes, you must have at least 50% physical custody of your child to be eligible. When applicable, we verify this through a court-ordered child custody agreement—this is not required if the other parent is not listed on the birth certificate. You may also qualify if you have documented legal guardianship of a minor.
We define family in a variety of ways, including single parents with at least 50% physical custody of their children, married couples, and blended families. Children in the household are typically under 18; however, we also consider children over 18 if they are actively enrolled in school, serving in the military, or participating in a trade or vocational program. Please note that cohabitating couples who are not married are not considered eligible under our definition of family. Our goal is to support stable, committed family environments that prioritize the well-being of children.
Yes, house pets are allowed, but they must be approved in advance, and families must follow all conditions outlined in our pet policy. All dogs are required to have and maintain up-to-date rabies vaccinations and current county licensing (in accordance with MI law: MCL – Section 287.266 – Michigan Legislature). Cats must have a documented health exam, be spayed or neutered, and may not be kept as outdoor pets. Program participants are allowed no more than two house pets. Compliance with these guidelines helps ensure the safety and well-being of all residents.
No. Weapons of any kind—including firearms, bows, and similar items—are not allowed on campus. If families own firearms or other weapons, they must be stored securely offsite. This policy is in place to ensure the safety and security of all residents and staff.
Yes, reliable transportation is required. The National Home campus is located in a rural community that is not easily accessible by public transportation. You must have a dependable vehicle with up-to-date insurance and registration to ensure access to work, school, and other essential services.
Yes. Enrollment in the Family Program is voluntary, and families can transition out at any time. Most families stay for 3–5 years to complete the full phase-based program, which is designed to ensure long-term stability and success. However, you may leave earlier if you meet your goals or are ready to move on to the next chapter in your journey.
We understand that families may have varying timelines, such as transitioning from out-of-state, completing a lease, or preparing to leave military service. We regularly work with families, including those transitioning from active duty, who may need some time to prepare. A longer timeline will not affect your eligibility or acceptance into the program. We will work with you to ensure a smooth transition whenever you’re ready to move in, as long as it’s within a reasonable timeframe.
Program participants work on a variety of goals, including financial stability, veteran-specific needs, mental and physical health, housing, family dynamics, education, and career development. Each family is unique, and they identify and focus on the goals that are most important to them. Our program is designed to support families in achieving their personal aspirations while building a strong foundation for long-term success.
A case manager is a professional who helps individuals navigate and access services and resources to achieve their personal goals. They provide support, guidance, and advocacy throughout the process.
At the National Home, each family is assigned a case manager who will work closely with them to set goals and connect them with the necessary resources to achieve those goals. Your case manager will also help keep you accountable, ensuring you stay on track and make steady progress toward your objectives.
Yes, the program is based in Eaton Rapids, MI, and families live in one of our 43 single-family homes while enrolled. Relocating to Eaton Rapids is necessary to participate in the on-site program.
Yes, there are several universities and colleges near the campus, including Michigan State University, the University of Michigan, Lansing Community College, and others. We recommend that prospective participants research local colleges and universities to see if their programs of interest are available.
Yes, you can still qualify for the program. Our programs are individualized, and each participant’s goals and participation requirements are tailored to their unique situation. You will be expected to have 40 hours of participation each week, which can be defined in many ways. For example, if you receive VA disability, your participation could include working on veteran-specific goals, accessing VA services, volunteering, engaging in peer support, or participating in VR&E (Veteran Readiness and Employment). The focus is on meaningful participation to help you achieve your personal goals.
While we generally do not accept individuals with felony convictions, exceptions may be considered depending on the circumstances. Having a criminal record does not automatically disqualify you. Please contact us directly to discuss your specific situation.
All adults in the home are expected to either contribute financially or actively toward becoming financially self-sufficient – for example, by pursuing education, job training, or other personal development goals. For that reason, we do not allow stay-at-home parents in the traditional sense. Participants are expected to dedicate 40 hours each week toward their individualized goals. This may include attending school, vocational training, volunteering, or other productive activities. We also recognize that individuals receiving VA disability or SSDI may have different participation capacities, which are considered during the goal-setting process.
Yes, the houses come fully furnished, including furniture, beds, pots and pans, dishes, and silverware. Families are welcome to bring their own furniture or household items if they prefer. We just ask that you coordinate with your assigned case manager during the transition process to help ensure a smooth move-in. Most homes offer ample basement storage space for large personal items, if needed.
Program participants are expected to meet regularly with their assigned case manager, set meaningful goals, and make consistent progress toward them. Each adult is also expected to dedicate at least 40 hours per week to working on their goals—this can include employment, education, volunteering, or other approved activities that support their individualized plan.
Participating in the program offers numerous benefits, including stability and a supportive community during your transition into civilian life. You’ll have access to case management services and veteran-specific resources such as peer support, VSO assistance, and career exploration. You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with fellow veterans, building camaraderie and support.
Families can take advantage of special programs, such as after school and summer programming for kids, as well as veteran-specific activities like beekeeping, guitar lessons, and the “Cup-of-Joe” program. Other benefits include financial assistance opportunities for college, referrals to community resources, on-site financial education, and various classes. Housing is provided while enrolled, along with free licensed daycare for pre-school aged children.
