More than two dozen homeless veterans on Long Island will soon get help finding housing thanks to a grant from the federal government.

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development officials announced Monday that Nassau and Suffolk counties are receiving what are called vouchers to help veterans. Under the voucher program, veterans pay 30 percent of their monthly rent, with the rest being covered by the federal government.

On Long Island, the program will help 25 homeless veterans put a roof over their heads.

David Leon says things weren't easy for him after being discharged from the Army. The Glen Cove native says he had several medical issues, including a bout with cancer, and had to stay with family. After staying at the Northport VA homeless shelter, Leon eventually found a subsidized housing complex for veterans in North Amityville, where he now lives. But with the voucher program, veterans are encouraged to find housing in the community, whether in private apartment complexes or an apartment inside a house.

HUD officials say the number of homeless veterans on Long Island dropped 4 percent in 2018. There's an estimated 135 homeless veterans right now.