When hurricanes strike, VetCV, the VetCV Foundation, and its Patriot Partners are here to help those affected navigate the challenges ahead. From emergency relief and housing support to mental health resources, financial assistance, and vital recovery services, our community stands ready to assist Veterans, their families, and those in need.

Together, we can provide the tools and support to rebuild, recover, and stay resilient during tough times.

Public Service Update from Rep. Michelle Salzman

If you need assistance, Hope Navigators are available – Call: 1 (833) 438- 4673

Here’s a list of Florida and federal resources available for those impacted by Hurricane Helene:

1. Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM)
   • Provides up-to-date information on disaster recovery efforts, shelters, evacuation routes, and assistance programs.
   • Website: FloridaDisaster.org
2. Florida Disaster Recovery Fund
   • Offers financial assistance for immediate needs such as housing, food, and supplies.
   • Website: VolunteerFlorida.org
3. Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO)
   • Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA):
   • Provides temporary unemployment benefits for those affected by a disaster and who are not eligible for regular unemployment.
   • Website: DEO Disasters
4. Florida Housing Finance Corporation (FHFC)
   • Offers temporary housing assistance to families and individuals displaced by the hurricane.
   • Website: FloridaHousing.org
5. American Red Cross of Florida
   • Provides emergency shelter, food, and financial assistance.
   • Website: RedCross.org
6. 211 Florida
   • A free resource for connecting people to local shelters, food banks, crisis support, and more.
   • Phone: 211
   • Website: 211.org
7. Food Assistance – SNAP
   • The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program provides emergency food assistance for those affected by the hurricane.
   • Website: myflfamilies.com

Federal Resources:

1. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
   • Provides disaster assistance for homeowners, renters, and businesses.
   • Phone: 1-800-621-3362
   • Website: DisasterAssistance.gov
2. Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Loans
   • Offers low-interest loans for homeowners, renters, and businesses to repair or replace property damaged by the hurricane.
   • Website: SBA.gov
3. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
   • Provides foreclosure relief and special mortgage programs for those impacted by the hurricane.
   • Website: HUD.gov
4. National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)
   • Offers claims and financial assistance for those with flood insurance coverage.
   • Website: FloodSmart.gov
5. Disaster Distress Helpline
   • Provides mental health counseling and emotional support for individuals and families impacted by the disaster.
   • Phone: 1-800-985-5990
   • Website: Samhsa.gov
6. USDA Disaster Assistance Programs
   • Offers support for farmers, ranchers, and those in agricultural industries impacted by hurricanes.
   • Website: USDA.gov
7. Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
   • Offers tax relief for individuals and businesses in federally declared disaster areas.
   • Website: IRS.gov

These resources can offer immediate and long-term assistance to those impacted by Hurricane Helene.

The VetCV Foundation Hurricane Helene Disaster Relief Fund is dedicated to providing swift, life-changing support to veterans, their families, and communities 737373impacted by the storm. Your donations directly help those in need.

To set up your VetCV Vault and browse more resources, register or login below.

Evacuees: Use the Vault to Backup Important Documents

As a service to the public, we are making the VetCV Vault available to the general public due to Hurricane Helene and the evacuation orders in place. We believe that the Vault will be useful for those evacuating to create a digital backup of their important documents.

If you need assistance, Hope Navigators are available – Call: 1 (833) 438- 4673

Please feel free to register or login at the links below.

National Suicide Prevention Month

September is Suicide Prevention Month, a time for us to reflect, raise awareness, and learn how we can provide support for those who may be struggling in silence. All month long, mental health advocates, prevention organizations, survivors, community members, and families unite to promote suicide prevention awareness. As friends and family members of veterans—as well as veterans ourselves—we are all too familiar with this issue. Right now is a great time to familiarize yourself with the resources available when you or someone close to you are struggling, such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (9-8-8). Check out our Crisis Support page in the Resource Library to see more resources and support organizations that can help.

Learn More

New VetCV AI Buddy Chatbot Added to the Vault

At VetCV, we’re committed to making a difference, which is why we’re introducing a powerful new tool in our VetCV Vault: your AI Buddy Chatbot. Designed to offer 24/7 support and access to resources, your AI Buddy can help you learn coping strategies and find professional help if you need it. The VetCV AI Buddy can also help you plan for the future, navigate important life events, and more.

Log in or register your VetCV account and check out your VetCV AI Buddy.

Today, we pause to remember the tragic events of September 11, 2001. We honor the lives lost, the bravery of first responders, and the resilience of our nation in the face of adversity. As we reflect on this day, let us hold close the values of unity, compassion, and service that emerged in the aftermath. May we never forget the sacrifices made and continue to support one another with the strength that defines us.

Respectfully,

TeamVetCV

Gulf Coast Veterans Advocacy Council –
Memorial Day Ceremony

Monday, May 25th, 2024

9:00 AM CDT

Barrancas National Cemetery Memorial Plaza
1 Cemetery Rd,
Pensacola, FL 32508
(Onboard NAS Pensacola)

Admission is FREE!