June is PTSD Awareness Month, a time to recognize the toll post-traumatic stress can take on veterans, service members and their families. As a Marine veteran and member of the House Veterans Affairs and Public Safety Committee, I understand the deep and lasting impact military service can have, especially for those battling the invisible wounds of war. This month is also an opportunity to connect Hoosier veterans and their loved ones with resources that can help make a difference in their lives.
Indiana continues to improve and expand resources to assist service members and veterans with housing, legal aid and more through the help of several organizations. This session, I was proud to support legislation aimed at improving the lives of service members, veterans and their families. This includes efforts to boost benefits for members of the Indiana National Guard and strengthen support for military spouses and dependents (HEA 1111), modernize military recognition in our state and expand eligibility requirements and opportunities for those who have served (HEA 1637) and ensure Hoosier veterans have streamlined access to the assistance and support they deserve by improving county veterans service offices (SEA 433).
The Military Assistance Project provides struggling Hoosier veterans, military members and their families with free legal services. This program specializes in civil cases such as wills, guardianship, document preparation and more.
Indiana's Military Family Relief Fund can help Hoosier veterans and their families with expenses related to housing, utilities, food, and medical and transportation costs. Honorably discharged veterans who are Indiana residents and can prove genuine financial hardship can apply online through the Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs' website under the Military Relief Fund Application.
County Veterans Service Offices work in partnership with the IDVA, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and various veteran service organizations to connect veterans, military members and their families to benefits and assistance. To find an office near you, visit the IDVA website at in.gov/dva/locate-your-cvso.
For 24/7, confidential crisis support, veterans or their loved ones can dial 988 then press one or send a text to 838255 for the Veterans Crisis Line. Callers do not have to be enrolled in veterans benefits or health care to connect. Hoosiers can also visit veteranscrisisline.net and join a chat with a VA responder.
Thank you to all those who have and are serving. Please reach out for additional resources at in.gov/h57 or by calling 317-232-9597.
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State Rep. Craig Haggard (R-Mooresville) represents House District 57,
which includes portions of Hendricks, Johnson and Morgan counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
