Supporting Hoosier Veterans

Given the recent military developments abroad, many brave Hoosier men and women who are serving or have served our country may be in need and searching for answers to complicated questions.

Indiana Senate Republicans are committed to supporting active-duty military personnel, as well as Hoosier veterans and encourage those who may be struggling to contact the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs for help.

If you, or someone you know, are struggling with mental health, consider using the following resources:

• Veterans Crisis Line – If you have thoughts of suicide, call 1-800-273-8255, then Press 1, or click here.
• For emergency mental health care, you can also go directly to your local Veterans Affairs (VA) medical center 24/7, regardless of your discharge status or program enrollment.
  
  
• Vet Centers – Discuss how you feel with other veterans in these community-based counseling centers.
• Seventy percent of the Vet Center staff are veterans. Call 1-877-927-8387 or click here to find a location nearest to you.
  
  
• VA Caregiver Support Line – Call 1-855-260-3274 (Available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Saturdays, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.)
• Caregivers play an integral role in caring for veterans. As such, it is imperative that they receive the care they need to provide effective treatment at all times.

Additionally, click here for the VA Mental Health Services Guide, which will help you sign up and access mental health services.

At the state level, the Indiana General Assembly recently expanded eligibility for the Military Family Relief Fund (MFRF). The MFRF is designed to assist Hoosier veterans and their legal dependents that are experiencing financial hardships. This emergency grant may also be used for needs such as housing, utilities, food, medical services and basic transportation (car payments, insurance, and basic emergency car repair).

Please remember to reach out to family members and friends who are currently serving or who have served. We remain a free and democratic state because of their service and sacrifice.

For a comprehensive list of resources currently offered at the state level, visit IndianaSenateRepublicans.com/Veterans.

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