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Harbor Care CEO Named Healthcare Hero for Innovative Veteran Homelessness Approach

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  Published in Politics and Government on Thursday, March 5th 2026 at 12:25 GMT by Patch
      Locale: UNITED STATES

Nashua, NH - Marie Johnson, CEO of Harbor Care, has rightfully earned the title of Healthcare Hero from New Hampshire Business Review, but the award represents far more than simple recognition of individual achievement. It spotlights a fundamental shift in how New Hampshire, and increasingly the nation, approaches the complex issue of veteran homelessness - moving beyond simply providing shelter to offering comprehensive, holistic care that addresses the root causes of instability.

For years, addressing homelessness involved a predominantly housing-first strategy. While providing immediate shelter remains critical, experts now recognize that a roof over one's head is only the first step. Veterans, in particular, often face a unique set of challenges - stemming from the physical and psychological wounds of service, bureaucratic hurdles in accessing benefits, and the difficulties of reintegrating into civilian life - that demand a far more nuanced response.

Under Johnson's leadership, Harbor Care has become a model for this holistic approach. The organization doesn't just find veterans a place to live; it actively connects them with vital healthcare services, including primary care, mental health counseling, and substance abuse treatment. This is crucial, as studies consistently show a disproportionately high rate of both mental health issues and substance use disorders among the homeless veteran population. Untreated trauma and addiction create significant barriers to long-term stability, often leading to a cycle of homelessness.

"We've learned that housing is a platform, not a solution," explains a Harbor Care program director, speaking on background. "If you address the underlying issues - the PTSD, the chronic pain, the lack of job skills - you empower veterans to stay housed and rebuild their lives."

But Harbor Care's work extends even further than medical and mental healthcare. "Wraparound services," as they are commonly known, encompass a broad range of supports designed to address individual needs. These can include assistance with navigating the Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits system, job training and placement services, legal aid, and help with obtaining essential documents like birth certificates and identification cards. For many veterans, particularly those who have been homeless for extended periods, simply accessing these basic necessities can feel insurmountable.

The impact of Harbor Care's work is demonstrable. New Hampshire has seen a significant reduction in its veteran homeless population, and the organization's success is widely credited with playing a major role in that progress. This accomplishment isn't accidental. It's the result of strategic fundraising, collaborative partnerships with local and federal agencies (including the VA), and a dedicated team committed to serving those who served our country.

The Healthcare Hero award isn't just about celebrating past achievements; it's also about raising awareness and advocating for continued investment in these vital programs. Despite progress, the problem of veteran homelessness persists. Economic factors, such as rising housing costs and stagnant wages, continue to exacerbate the issue, and the need for comprehensive support services remains high.

Furthermore, the challenges faced by veterans are evolving. The demographic of the homeless veteran population is shifting, with an increasing number of younger veterans - those who served in Iraq and Afghanistan - experiencing homelessness. These individuals often face different challenges than their predecessors, including the complex effects of traumatic brain injury (TBI) and the long-term consequences of exposure to environmental hazards.

Looking ahead, Harbor Care plans to expand its services to address these emerging needs. This includes investing in specialized programs for female veterans, who are a rapidly growing segment of the homeless veteran population, and developing innovative approaches to providing telehealth and remote support services. Johnson's vision is to create a truly integrated system of care that meets veterans where they are and provides them with the resources they need to thrive. The recognition from New Hampshire Business Review serves as a powerful endorsement of that vision, and a call to action for continued collaboration and commitment to ending veteran homelessness, not just in New Hampshire, but across the nation.