Resources

https://www.va.gov/resources/ You can find FAQs about VA benefits and services, step-by-step instructions for using VA.gov tools, and other helpful articles. If you have questions about how COVID-19 may affect your VA benefits and services, read our coronavirus FAQs.

The Vet Center Program provides counseling and support for vets adjusting to civilian life after returning home from war. The program is present in cities throughout the nation and serves veterans who served in any combat zone.

The PTSD Foundation exists to combat the impact of post-traumatic stress. It provides some counseling and networking services for veterans, but it also works to raise awareness about PTSD so that families are better prepared to deal with it. The foundation supports a number of programs, including Camp Hope and Warrior Groups. It also works with individuals and organizations across the nation to set up one-on-one mentoring and larger support groups to help vets and families navigate and deal with PTSD.

Since 1919, the American Legion has served wartime veterans in a variety of ways. It has local chapters across the country and provides youth mentoring programs, help with seeking benefits, an education center, a health center, and a career center to help vets returning from war or retiring from the service to find employment. The American Legion partners with other organizations, such as the United Services Automobile Association, to provide financial products especially for its members.

Veterans who meet membership requirements can join the American Legion via their website or by contacting a local office.

Coaching Into Care is a program of the VA. It provides mentoring and guidance for family members and others who are seeking benefits, care, and other services for veterans. The coaching is provided free of charge to family members via 10- to 30-minute phone calls. Families can call Coaching Into Care from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST on weekdays at (888) 823-7458.

This organization reaches out to and empowers younger vets — specifically those who served post-9/11. IAVA membership is open to “all veterans, families and civilian allies,” and there are no dues. While membership is free, the advocacy organization relies on donations and fundraising efforts to support its work in helping vets unite in the community.

The Veterans Crisis Line is a single point of contact vets or families can call during a moment of crisis. Veterans in need or family members can call 1 (800) 273-8255 and press 1 to talk to someone, but they can also send a text message to 838255 or chat online with someone. Trained reps at the Veterans Crisis Line help those in need connect with the right resources and services.

Lifeline for Vets is a vet-to-vet assistance program. Vets staff hotlines, chats, and texts to provide support to other vets who are in need. Veterans who need to talk to someone, want to find out about support opportunities, or feel like they are in crisis right now can call (888) 777-4443 or request assistance online.

NMFA acts as a voice and network for military families. It works with federal and state lawmakers in an effort to protect the interests of military families, but it also supports events and programs that benefit the family and children of veterans. Some types of programs the organization offers include scholarships, family retreats, and camps for kids. Interested family members can find out more at the NMFA website.