Veterans Advisory Board VETERANS RESOURCE GUIDE Benefits and Healthcare
1-844-693-5838
https://floridavets.org/wp- content/uploads/2012/08/FDVA-Benefits- Guide.pdf?v=2022
Florida Veterans’ Benefits Guide 2026
This annual guide helps connect Florida’s Veterans and their families with earned federal and state benefits, services, and support. It also contains useful phone numbers and website addresses for additional information. www.ftlauderdalebehavioral.com Fort Lauderdale Behavioral Health Center offers inpatient psychiatric treatment to Veteran service members in need of mental health care. This 10-bed unit was specifically created to provide for the mental health of Veterans. https://www.va.gov/health-care/manage-health/ My HealtheVet is an online portal for Veterans to manage their healthcare by being able to refill prescriptions and manage medications, schedule VA appointments, order medical supplies, and communicate privately with VA health care team. To access this online, one must be enrolled in VA health care and be registered as a patient in a VA health facility. https://www.visn8.va.gov/ccc.asp Clinical Contact Center provides 24/7, virtual care and tele-emergency care and support to Veterans enrolled for VA Health Care in Florida, South Georgia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Services include general administrative support, nurse advice and triage, virtual visits with a doctor or nurse practitioner via telephone, VA Video Connect, or VA Health Chat. VA Health Chat app: https://mobile.va.gov/app/va-health-chat
Fort Lauderdale Behavioral Health Center
954-734-2002
My HealtheVet on VA.gov
1-877-327-0022 TTY: 1-800-877-8339
1-877-741-3400
The Veterans Integrated Service Network (VISN) Clinical Contact Center
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TRICARE For Life
1-866-773-0404
www.Tricare4U.com TRICARE For Life is Medicare-wraparound coverage for TRICARE-eligible beneficiaries who have Medicare Part A and B. Coverage does not extend to family members. www.va.gov/ U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs assists Veterans with finding benefits they may be eligible for during service and which time-sensitive benefits to consider when separating or retiring from service. These benefits include and are not limited to: healthcare and mental health services, assistance for filing disability claims, job counseling, and college or training program assistance. www.womenshealth.va.gov/ Women Veterans Health Care assists female Veterans by offering primary care and comprehensive women’s health services such as general wellness checks and routine screenings, women-specific care for reproductive health, mental health services, treatment for conditions related to military sexual trauma, specialty services, and more. www.arlingtoncemetery.mil/Funerals/Scheduling-a- Funeral Arlington National Cemetery honors those who have served the nation and provides a sense of beauty and peace for guests. www.cem.va.gov/ The National Cemetery Administration provides burial space for Veterans and their eligible family members, and maintains national cemeteries as national shrines, sacred to the honor and memory of those interred or memorialized there. www.cem.va.gov/cems/nchp/southflorida.asp The 338-acre South Florida National Cemetery is open to all members of the armed forces who have met a minimum active duty service requirement and were discharged under conditions other than dishonorable. https://www.broward.org/veterans/Pages/default.aspx Veteran Services helps Veterans and their family members understand and determine eligibility for Veteran’s benefits and assists with filing a variety of benefit claims with Federal Veterans Affairs.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
800-827-1000
The Women’s Veterans Call Center: 1-855-829-6636
Women Veterans Health Care – U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs
Cemetery/Burial Information
Arlington National Cemetery
1-877-907-8585
National Cemetery Administration – U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs
800-698-2411
561-649-6489
South Florida National Cemetery – U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs
Crisis Hotlines
Broward County Veteran Services
954-357-6622
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Homeless Women Veterans – U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs National Resource Directory (NRD) National Call Center for Homeless Veterans: 1-877-424-3838 Suicide Prevention Lifeline
1-855-829-6636
www.va.gov/homeless/for_women_veterans.asp VA strives to address the individualized needs of women Veterans throughout its network of homeless assistance programs and specialized programs. www.nationalresourcedirectory.gov/ The National Resource Directory is a federal government initiative that connects wounded, ill, and injured service members, Veterans, and caregivers to a wide range of services. It was created to improve the coordination of care and support for military and Veteran communities, ensuring they have access to resources they need for recovery and reintegration. https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/ 988 is the three-digit dialing code that will route callers to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. There are counselors on the other end to talk and help with all types of challenges, including mental health struggles, emotional distress, and alcohol and drug use concerns. https://www.thefirewatch.org/ The Fire Watch works to educate and train the community through demonstrations and programs to identify the warning signs of Veterans in crisis and to direct those Veterans to the help they need. www.va.gov/homeless/ Veterans who are homeless or at imminent risk of homelessness are strongly encouraged to contact the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans. These Veterans are connected to housing solutions, health care, community employment services, and other required supports.
Military Crisis Line: 988, Press 1
Wounded Warrior Resource Center: 1-800-342-9647
988
The Fire Watch
904-834-9420
Veteran Homeless Programs – U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs
877-424-3838
Veterans 24 Hour Crisis Line – U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/ The Veterans Crisis Line connects Veterans and Service members in crisis and their families and friends with qualified, caring VA responders through a confidential toll- free hotline, online chat, or text. If Veterans do not have access to a phone or the internet, only then are they to visit their closest VA medical center without calling in advance. Education, Training, Job & Business Assistance Careers and Employment – U.S. 988, Press 1 800-827-1000 www.vets.gov/employment/ U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Careers and Employment offers assistance to help build careers and find the opportunities that are right for Veterans. Department of Veteran Affairs
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Education and Training – U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs Florida Small Business Development Center Network (SBDC)
888-442-4551
www.benefits.va.gov/gibill/ The Office of Education and Training assists Veterans, service members, and their qualified family members with needs like paying college tuition, finding the right school or training program, and getting career counseling. https://floridasbdc.org/get-training/ The Florida SBDC network offers hundreds of live training events, both in-person and online, across the state each year. These training events provide current and practical information on business topics ranging from business basics to more advanced management skills. These events include workshops, seminars, conferences, peer- to-peer roundtables, networking, and matchmaking. They also offer on-demand training videos. www.vets.gov/gi-bill-comparison-tool The GI Bill Comparison Tool helps Veterans search and compare approved schools, employers, exams, licenses, and certifications to see how much their VA benefits can help cover. www.consumerfinance.gov/servicemembers CFPB’s Office of Servicemember Affairs (OSA) works to help military families overcome unique financial challenges by providing educational resources, monitoring complaints, and working with other agencies to solve problems faced by servicemembers. https://www.helpflvets.org/ The Florida Veterans Foundation (FVF) Emergency Financial Assistance Program, in partnership with Project VetRelief (PVR), provides crucial financial support to Florida Veterans facing urgent hardships. This program assists with essential needs such as rent, utilities, transportation, and other unexpected expenses to help prevent homelessness and financial instability. Eligible Veterans can apply for assistance through Project VetRelief: https://projectvetrelief.org/emergency-assistance-request/ https://www.veteransunited.com/ Veterans United assists Veterans and military families in becoming homeowners by offering a VA loan, a mortgage option backed by the Department of Veterans Affairs. VA purchase loans allow Veterans to buy single-family homes, condominiums, manufactured homes, multiunit properties (like a duplex) and even new construction.
850-898-3479
888-442-4551
GI Bill Comparison Tool – U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs
Financial Resources
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau
855-411-2372 TTY: 855-729-2372
Florida Veterans Foundation
850-782-4305
Veterans United Home Loans
1-855-258-3548
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Locate Military Records
www.archives.gov The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) is the nation's record keeper. Valuable records, such as military service records, are preserved and available. https://bcpa.net/homestead.asp Veterans may be able to save money on their Property Taxes by getting Veterans tax exemptions on their homes. Visit https://bcpa.net/homestead.asp to find out what exemptions are available. Owner Alert can help homeowners monitor their property. www.bcpa.net/homepage.asp This free service is designed to help protect from scams or fraud by notifying owners if a document is received by BCPA that changes the ownership of the property. https://www.sunrisefl.gov/departments-services/city- clerk/commissions-boards The Veterans Advisory Board provides and promotes recommendations to the Deputy City Manager on projects, programs and initiatives intended to encourage recognition and support of Veterans, Active Duty Personnel, Drilling Reservists and their families. These meetings are held on the 3 rd Thursday of every month at 5:30pm in the Everglades Conference Room at Sunrise City Hall: 10770 West Oakland Park Boulevard Sunrise, FL 33351 http://dma.myflorida.com/ The Florida Department of Military Affairs (DMA) provides management oversight and administrative support to the Florida National Guard. Directly responsive to the Governor of Florida, the Department operates within the policy guidance and fiscal framework of both federal and state authorities. https://www.adrcbroward.org/ They offer free elder services and activities, such as food assistance, housing, legal assistance, Medicare, Medicaid long-term care services, senior employment, utilities and other services. They are the prime advocate for residents of Broward County who are 60 years of age or older.
1-866-272-6272 TTY: Dial 711 then 1-866-272-6272
National Archives and Records Administration (NARA)
Other Departments and Agencies
Broward County Property Appraiser (BCPA)
954-357-6830 www.bcpa.net
City of Sunrise Veterans Advisory Board
954-746-3333
Department of Military Affairs (DMA)
904-823-0364
Elder Helpline (EHEAP)/Area Agency on Aging of Broward County
954-745-9779 1-800-96-ELDER (1-800-963-5337)
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Florida Highway Safety – Titles & Registrations for Military Members
850-617-2000
https://www.flhsmv.gov/military/titles-registrations- military-members/ Forms are available online for military members to title and register a motor vehicle or vessel. https://www.mowsoflo.org/ Meals on Wheels South Florida is a community-based organization that provides nutritious meals, friendly visits, and safety checks to seniors in Broward County. Broward County residents 60+ can apply online for meals. For Broward County seniors who need immediate assistance, Meals on Wheels can deliver a 14-day supply of emergency meals. https://www.broward.org/Parks/ThingsToDo Experience nature in a kayak or canoe, stumble upon a birding habitat, enjoy the thrill of an Everglades airboat ride, or explore South Florida's biodiversity at a nature center at a Broward County Park. Veterans who served in the United States Armed Forces and have a service-related disability can apply for a free Parks Passport. The credit card-style passes will be good for five years from the date of activation – a savings of more than $150 – and may be renewed. (The pass does not provide prepaid parking at Hollywood North Beach Park or admittance into special park amenities or events.) It covers the weekend and County-observed holiday entrance fee in a vehicle (with fewer than 8 occupants). Disabled Veterans Parks Pass Program: https://www.broward.org/veterans/Pages/ParksPassProg ram.aspx This is a free, special tribute event in honor of U.S. military personnel who lost their lives to secure the nation’s freedom. This ceremony typically features a wreath placement, bagpipes, distinguished speakers, Piper High Schools JROTC presentation of colors, Sunrise Police Honor Guard, and Sunrise Fire Rescue Honor Guard. It takes place on Memorial Day at 9:00 am in the Sunrise Civic Center Theatre: 10610 West Oakland Park Boulevard, Sunrise, 33351.
Meals on Wheels South Florida
954-731-8770
Recreational Activities
Broward County Parks
954-357-6622
City of Sunrise Memorial Day Event
954-746-3670
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City of Sunrise Vet Connect
954-746-3670
Vet Connect is a free meetup for Veterans, their spouses, and their caregivers on the second Wednesday of each month at 9:30am at the Sunrise Senior Center: 10650 West Oakland Park Boulevard Sunrise, Florida 33351. These meetings have informational speakers, helpful resources, and a light continental breakfast. Participants are asked to please bring military ID or other proof of service. The City holds a free annual celebration in honor of all Veterans. This event typically features a three-round volley, distinguished speakers, the presentation of colors, and more. It takes place on Veterans Day at 10:30 am in the Sunrise Civic Center Theatre: 10610 West Oakland Park Boulevard, Sunrise, 33351. https://www.sunrisefl.gov/Home/Components/FacilityDire ctory/FacilityDirectory/130/258 This park serves as a memorial that honors the courageous Veterans from all branches of the United States military who so honorably defend the freedoms that we enjoy. Reserved parking spaces exclusively for combat-wounded Veterans are available. It has a paved walking path, a remembrance pavilion, a new restroom facility, and a boundless playground that includes a zip line, swings, and an impressive variety of spinning, climbing, and sliding play implements. https://www.fdacs.gov/Forest-Wildfire/Our-Forests/State- Forests/State-Forest-Recreation/Operation-Outdoor- Freedom Led by the Florida Forest Service, Operation Outdoor Freedom provides recreational and rehabilitative opportunities to wounded Veterans on state forests, agricultural lands and private lands throughout Florida at no cost. Register for a recreational event: https://ffs.fdacs.gov/OOF/ https://www.floridastateparks.org/ Florida State Parks offer the following discounted and free entry programs for active duty and Veterans/retired military: 25% discount off of the purchase of an Individual or Family Annual Entrance Pass A free-for-life Entrance Pass for Veterans with service-related disabilities 50% discount off of day-use entrance fees 50% discount off of campsite rental fees in state parks
954-746-3670
City of Sunrise Veterans Day Event
City of Sunrise Veterans Park
954-747-4600
800-435-7352
Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
Florida State Parks 850-245-2157
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Honor Flight South Florida
855-359-1838
www.honorflightsouthflorida.org/ Veterans in Broward, Dade, and Monroe counties are honored by being flown to Washington D.C. to visit and reflect at the memorials built in their honor. The Veteran’s one-day mission to Washington D.C. includes round-trip airfare, deluxe bus transportation throughout Washington with police escorts, meals, commemorative tee shirts, and other amenities needed to travel comfortably. Disabled Veterans are also welcome; with advance arrangements, honor chairs and oxygen are available. Apply for an Honor Flight: https://www.honorflightsouthflorida.org/apply-now/ https://www.military.com/discounts/miami-marlins- military-discount For select games, active and retired military personnel and Veterans receive two complimentary tickets. Participants are asked to please bring their official service ID to the North Ticket Office to redeem this offer. https://www.vetbaseball.org/ VetBaseball facilitates a free of charge baseball experience for qualified Veterans and Gold Star Families by arranging for door to door transportation, tickets, snacks, and more to Major League Baseball Games. www.legion.org/ The American Legion is the nation’s largest Veterans service organization. They offer Veteran services regarding benefits assistance, education, financial, and health. Through membership, Veterans can receive more access to resources, exclusive member discounts on services, and the chance to connect with fellow Veterans. www.dav.org/ DAV is a nonprofit charity that supports disabled Veterans and provides a lifetime of support to Veterans of all generations, their families, and survivors, by helping them access healthcare, employment, education, and financial benefits they have earned through military service. https://www.lutzlivetotell.org/ The LCpl Janos V Lutz Live to Tell Foundation, Inc. is a South Florida nonprofit dedicated to addressing Veteran suicide and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). They offer programs, like the Lutz Buddy Up Social Clubs, that serve as resources for peer support, community connection, and mental health.
Miami Marlins
305-480-2525
VetBaseball
754-205-7211 info@vetbaseball.org
Service Organizations
American Legion
800-433-3318
Disabled American Veterans Organization (DAV)
877-426-2838
LCpl Janos V Lutz Live to Tell Foundation, Inc.
863-263-2461 todd.hughes@lutzlivet otell.org
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Military One Source 800-342-9647
www.militaryonesource.mil/ Military OneSource is a 24/7 connection to information, answers and support to help Veterans overcome challenges and thrive. These services include tax services, spouse employment help, webinars and online training, relocation and deployment tools, and much more. www.missionunitedbroward.org MISSION UNITED supports Veterans with vital resources including housing support, education, health, free legal assistance, employment services, and financial stability. Veterans seeking homeless prevention services are encouraged to visit the Veterans Resource Center located at 320 SE 9th Street, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316 on Mondays and Thursdays between 10:00am and 2:00pm to meet directly with MISSION UNITED staff and community partners. Services include: homeless prevention; legal aid; VA benefits (VSO); health screenings; and resource navigation. www.vfw.org/ The Veterans of Foreign Wars is a nonprofit Veterans service organization that offers free assistance including help with VA claims, financial assistance up to $2,500 in the form of a grant, scholarships of up to $5,000 for those pursuing education, and mental health services.
TTY: Dial 711 then 800-342-9647
United Way of Broward County – MISSION UNITED
950-462-4850
Veterans of Foreign Wars
352-622-5126
Transportation
Broward County – Riders Guide
954-357-6622
https://www.broward.org/BCT/Riders Broward County Transit has a variety of programs specifically designed for individuals who cannot transport or obtain transportation for themselves.
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https://www.tri-rail.com/pages/view/discount-policy Accessibility: Tri-Rail trains and stations are accessible to individuals with disabilities, with elevators and passenger walkways. Discounted Fares: Persons with disabilities can pre- qualify for a discounted fare EASY Card to ride at a reduced rate. Acceptable documentation to prove eligibility includes a Medicare Card, Disabled Veterans ID, or a letter from a physician. Personal Care Attendants (PCAs): Approved PCAs can ride for free with an eligible individual with a disability. Veterans with Disabilities can receive a pass to ride Tri- Rail free by presenting their Service Connected Veteran’s Identification Card (VA card) issued by the US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Alternate eligibility forms provided by the VA may be accepted.
Tri-Rail
800-874-7245 TTY: Dial 711 then 1- 800-955-8771
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