Mayor Adams connects over 10,000 NYC Veterans to vital services

File Source: NYC.gov

New York City Mayor Eric Adams and Department of Veterans’ Services Commissioner James Hendon have announced a significant milestone in supporting the city’s veterans as part of “Mental Health Week.” Between November 2023 and June 2024, the Department of Veterans’ Services reached out to 10,564 veterans through “Mission: VetCheck,” a collaborative initiative with New York Cares aimed at connecting veterans with vital resources.

“While even the simple act of getting a call and being thanked for their service is uplifting to our veterans, getting a call and being connected to vital services can be life-changing,” said Mayor Adams. He praised the ongoing efforts to offer support, emphasizing that the initiative helps veterans access crucial services such as mental health care, housing, job opportunities, and more. “Thank you to Commissioner Hendon and his team for leading this effort and connecting the men and women who served our nation with the resources they need the most,” he added.

Mission: VetCheck, which relies on volunteers to make supportive check-in calls, aims to provide a crucial point of contact between veterans and their community. These calls offer information about mental health services, free meals, housing resources, and employment opportunities.

“Checking in on our veterans is more than just a courtesy — it’s a necessity,” said Commissioner Hendon. He explained that veterans face unique challenges that affect their mental health and overall quality of life, such as transitioning to civilian life and navigating complex support systems. “Programs like ‘Mission: VetCheck’ create a direct link between veterans and the vital resources available to them, while remaining tethered to the community in times of need,” he stated.

During the eight-month outreach, the program made over 400 referrals to essential services, including housing, legal assistance, and employment support. Many of the veterans who were contacted were connected to resources designed to help manage mental health challenges, such as counseling services, peer support groups, and alternative therapies.

New York City veterans who are in need of a supportive call can request one through the program’s website or by emailing connect@veterans.nyc.gov. Those interested in volunteering to make these calls can also sign up through New York Cares.

For veterans in immediate need of assistance, such as during a personal emergency or mental health crisis, they are encouraged to call 911 or visit the nearest emergency room. The Veterans Crisis Line is also available at 988 (then press 1) or by texting 838255, offering free and confidential support.

The mission of the Department of Veterans’ Services is to connect and empower the city’s veterans, helping them foster purpose-driven lives alongside their caregivers, survivors, and families. The department provides services related to employment, housing, food security, and more, ensuring that those who served the country are well-supported in their community.

Additionally, Mayor Adams’ broader “Behavioral Health Blueprint” has made strides in enhancing the city’s mental health services, expanding access to care, and supporting vulnerable populations. As part of his administration’s commitment, in January 2025, he pledged $650 million to address street homelessness and support individuals with severe mental illness, furthering efforts to create specialized shelter beds and providing a safe, supportive environment for those in need.