Page 2 - Newsletter Dec 2017
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Donations for Veterans and VA Employees affected by Hurricanes Harvey
     and Irma


     VA’s VAntage Point blog has the latest information on hurricane impact to
     VA facilities and services. For those impacted by Hurricane Harvey, click
     here. For information on Hurricane Irma, click here.

     As a result of Hurricane Harvey, many Veterans and VA employees
     residing in parts of Texas and Louisiana have lost their possessions, some
     have been displaced from their homes, and in some cases their homes
     have been completely destroyed.  While normally prohibited, the Office of
     Personnel Management has issued an exception for a special solicitation
     to allow federal employees to assist the disaster relief efforts with cash or
     check donations outside of the normal Combined Federal Campaign.  As
     the head of the agency, I am authorizing this special solicitation here at
     VA.

     The contributions received from this special solicitation will be given to the PenFed Foundation, which has established a separate fund to
     provide grants to Veterans and VA employees impacted by Hurricane Irma for reimbursement of home repairs not covered by insurance,
     temporary lodging, and extreme hardship expenses.  Donations can be made at http://www.PenFedFoundation.org/VAEmployees or by
     sending a check to PenFed Foundation, 2930 Eisenhower Ave, Alexandria, VA 22314.  Donations must be designated for either Hurricane
     Harvey, Hurricane Irma or may be split between both.  In addition, the Veterans Canteen Service will make available collection boxes in all
     Canteens to assist patrons in submitting funds to the PenFed Foundation.  This special solicitation will conclude on September 29, 2017.
     For the latest on VA’s response to Hurricanes Harvey and Irma, read more here on VAntage Point.



     Benefits Breakdown – Veterans Crisis Line


     I promote the Veterans Crisis Line whenever I can. It is a very important
     resource to be aware of and I try to remind people however I can. I’ve used
     the line to help a friend in need. I encourage everyone to put the number in
     their phone.
     1-800-273-8255 and Press 1

     So, in this episode of Borne the Battle, I decided to spotlight the Veterans
     Crisis Line. In the future, I hope to talk to someone that works there to get
     their perspective as well. For this week, I explain the different ways you can
     contact the VCL and the following frequently asked questions:

     What happens if I don’t press 1?
     Can I use the Veterans Crisis Line even if I’m already receiving care from VA?

     What mental health services are available from VA?

     Do I have to give my name or share personal information when I call the Veterans Crisis Line?

     If I share personal information, will it be kept confidential?















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