Library & Tools

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Homeless Programs Office, in partnership with the SAMHSA SOAR TA Center, recently released guidance for all federal VA staff on using SOAR in their work to end Veteran homelessness.

This webinar, held on April 17, 2024, explored the intersection of SOAR and Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) programs.

These are the tools and worksheets created by the SOAR TA Center that can help you in the SSI/SSDI Application process.

SOAR (SSI/SSDI Outreach, Access, and Recovery) case workers assist eligible individuals who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness and have a serious mental illness, medical impairment, and/or a co-occurring substance use disorder to apply for Social Security Disability benefits. Due to the unique nature of the position, the following are helpful suggestions and reminders when supervising SOAR case workers.

Staff turnover while there are pending disability applications can confuse and concern the applicant, the Social Security Administration (SSA), and Disability Determination Services (DDS). This checklist helps agencies effectively transfer applications to a new SOAR case worker, resulting in a frustration-free experience for all.

State-specific Medicaid waivers can help expand access to services for children with disabilities.

The SAMHSA SOAR TA Center holds informal monthly calls designed to help support SOAR efforts across the country.

This infographic highlights the various populations and systems within which SOAR can be implemented to increase access to SSI/SSDI for individuals experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

The SOAR Recertification Process provides an opportunity for active SOAR-trained practitioners to obtain an updated Certificate of Completion to verify their involvement with and knowledge of SOAR without having to complete the SOAR Online Course multiple times or on a yearly basis.

This webinar, held on February 27, 2024, addressed the growing population of older adults with disabilities who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness and the specific challenges they face, including accessing SSI/SSDI benefits and other needed assistance.