Veteran Justice Specialist (VJS) Morris assisted an Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) Army Veteran seeking assistance with behavioral health, food, and housing needs. Veteran stated that he had no food available to him and he would attend Alcoholics Anonymous meetings and eat whatever food was available. VJS connected the Veteran to Loudoun Hunger Relief and the Veteran obtained food resources. Veteran stated that he received enough food to last him a week and was instructed to return whenever he needed more.  Veteran stated that he was currently housed in a hotel in Sterling paid for by the local Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW).  JS connected the Veteran to Wounded Warrior Project, Semper Fi, and Volunteers of America. Veteran connected with the Wounded Warrior Project and they offered him financial assistance to help fund his hotel stay and assist him in finding suitable housing.

Veteran stated he was suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), traumatic brain injury (TBI), and other behavioral health concerns. VJS referred the Veteran to the Headstrong organization and connected the Veteran to Without Walls and Mending Hearts Christian Counseling Services Veteran began receiving therapy treatment to address his various behavioral health needs. Veteran stated to VJS that he has been sober from alcohol use for a little over a month and was motivated to remain sober but was having difficulty obtaining treatment in a timely manner from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). VJS coordinated for the Veteran to utilize Veterans Services Foundation (VSF) funds to pay for substance use treatment with a VSF approved behavioral health provider. Veteran is currently undergoing treatment and attending therapy sessions to address his substance use needs. VJS will continue to follow up with the Veteran until the Veteran’s needs are addressed.