SWFL Military Museum to hold veterans info fair on Friday
The Southwest Florida Military Museum & Library will hold a veteran information fair today from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. with local VA representatives available to offer educational program information.
The “one stop shop” for information that can be critical to active duty soldiers returning home, or even veterans who have struggled with obtaining the help they need, was put together by Scott Hartford, Veteran Outreach Program Specialist at the Fort Myers Vet Center.
“I wanted to put the event together all in one location,” said Hartford, a 20-year veteran in his own right. “It can help answer questions families may have and what each program offers.”
Providers to include, but are not limited to:
* Fort Myers Vet Center
* VA Clinic Registration
* Local VSO
* HUDVASH
* VA Vocational Rehab
* VA Clinic Chaplin
* Vet Cemetery Representative from Sarasota
* VBA St. Pete Claims Representative
* Mission United Project Manager
* Suicide Prevention
* Home Base Program SW Florida
* Hearts to Homes
* VA Caregiver Program
* Homes for Heroes
Hartford’s position requires him to be on the road, helping veterans across the region get the help they need, with a special focus on PTSD and suicide awareness.
“I thought, ‘What would I want?’ and ‘What questions would I have?'” he said of putting together the event.
He hopes this can help veterans spread the word to other veterans who may not realize the programs and benefits offered to them.
“The more information I can get on the street, the better,” Hartford said.
The goal of the fair is to bridge the gap between veterans and organizations, as the outlets available are good support networks to help answer questions, he said.
The Southwest Florida Military Museum & Library is at 4820 Leonard Street, Cape Coral.
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