FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WOWO): Former United States Senator Richard Lugar was on hand for a dedication ceremony and the grand opening of the Volunteers of America's Richard Lugar Safe Haven for Veterans.

The Safe Haven is funded by the Veterans Administration.  It provides a place for homeless veterans looking to transition to permanent and stable housing.  Veterans may stay in at the Save Haven at 2424 Fairfield Avenue for up to 6 months. Lisa Christen, the Regional Program Director for the Fort Wayne veterans program tells our partners in news at 21 Alive that statistics show the veterans homeless population is growing, and this shelter will fill a critical gap.