WOKV’s spotlight on the tragedy of veteran suicides

Jacksonville, FL — The VA estimates 20 veterans take their own lives each day. It’s a tragedy that WOKV is shining the spotlight on, with the hope of reaching veterans in crisis- or anyone who knows a veteran that is struggling- and connecting them with help.

FULL VIDEO:

RESOURCES:

-Veterans Crisis Line:  Call 1-800-273-8255 and press 1, text 838255, or  chat online. VA responders are available through this Crisis Line 24 hours a day, seven days a week for a confidential conversation.

-Searchable resources: Find clinical care, counseling, and other resources near you.

-Community Resource and Referral Center: This VA resource is open to walk-ins on weekdays from 8:30AM through 4:30PM for assistance with housing, mental health, substance abuse, nutrition, social services, peer support, and more. You can reach the Jacksonville CRRC at 904-798-2800.

-North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System: VA care in the local region.

-City of Jacksonville Military Affairs and Veterans Department: Free assistance in claiming VA benefits, employment, housing and utility payments

-K9s For Warriors: Providing service dogs to veterans suffering from Post-traumatic Stress Disorder, Traumatic Brain Injury, and/or Military Sexual Trauma as a result of military service post-9/11.

-Wounded Warrior Project: Empowering veterans who suffered a physical or mental injury, illnesses, or wound, in military service on or after 9/11.

-Five Star Veterans Center: Safe housing, health and wellness services, family reunification, education help, and job preparedness.

-Northeast Florida Women Veterans: Ensuring female veterans transition into the civilian community with the tools they need to become self-sufficient.

-Operation New Uniform: Career training and skill development.

-Onward to Opportunity: Free, comprehensive career skills program that provides civilian career training, professional certifications and job placement support to transitioning service members.

These are just a few of the organizations that represent a range of resources for veterans- from emergency assistance for those in crisis, to housing and employment for those transitioning in to civilian life. If you know an organization that should be added to this list, please contact WOKV’s Stephanie Brown at stephanie.brown@coxinc.com.