Mass Vets Advisor

The Social Security Administration's (SSA) disability insurance program pays benefits to disabled veterans & certain members of your family if you are insured. The SSA's Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program also pays benefits based on financial need. Veterans who have a VA compensation rating of 100% permanent & total (P&T) may receive expedited processing of applications for SSA disability benefits. To learn more about these SSA programs & apply visit the link above.

Soldier On is a nonprofit organization committed to ending veteran homelessness, providing homeless vets with transitional housing & supportive services in the Berkshire region. Some of their services include: - permanent housing - case management - women's program - veteran transportation - incarcerated veterans program - & more. To learn more or apply visit the link above. To contact Soldier On: Leeds Phone #: (413) 582-3059 Pittsfield Phone #: (413) 236-5644 Email: info@wesoldieron.org

Meeting Agenda

The Special Operations Warrior Foundation (SOWF) ensures complete post-secondary educational support & additional educational opportunities “cradle to career,” for eligible surviving children of fallen Special Operations Forces & children of all Medal of Honor recipients. Immediate financial assistance is provided to severely wounded, ill, & injured Special Operations personnel. To learn more or apply, visit the link above or: Call: (813) 805-9400 Email: warrior@specialops.org

Springfield Partners for Community Action provides vets & their families throughout Western MA with quality support services & access to financial assistance programs at the community, state, & federal levels. The group partners with other veteran organizations to help clients reach economic stability, helping with: - VA claims - Education benefits - Transportation - Obtaining safe & affordable housing - Financial assistance, & more. Visit the link above to apply or call: (413) 263-6500

Located in Springfield, Square One provides a range of family-friendly education & support services for them to build the foundation for lifelong learning, to make smart choices, & to grow strong cognitively, emotionally, socially, & physically. Some of their programs include: - Early Education & Care - Summer Programs - Childcare - Education & more. To learn more or apply visit the link above. You can also call (413) 732-5183.

The Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA) provides long-distance medical transportation via its Boston Hospital Shuttle. The shuttle services veterans, seniors, & persons with disabilities. To learn more about which communities & hospitals the shuttle services please visit the link above. To make reservations please contact your local VSO, Council on Aging, or: Call: (508) 997-6767 x3310 or (508) 824-1367 Email: maquino@srtabus.com or aconstantino@srpedd.org

Stand Downs are typically one to three day events during which the VA, state, & community organizations' staff volunteer to provide food, clothing, & health screenings to homeless & at-risk Veterans. In addition, Veterans also receive referrals for health care, housing solutions, employment, substance use treatment, mental health counseling & other essential services. To learn about upcoming Stand Down events near you, visit the link above & select "Massachusetts" on the drop-down menu.

Learn how servicemembers can get support to strengthen relationships with family members and others.

Student Veterans of America (SVA) acts as a catalyst for student veteran success by providing resources, network support & advocacy to, through, & beyond higher education; empowering students veterans to live their best lives. To learn how to join a local chapter at your college/university, find a career with the SVA, or learn more visit the link above. For any questions you can also: Call: (202) 223-4710