Celebrate Military Appreciation Month: Join NYC Health + Hospitals and Veterans’ Services for Exclusive Veteran Pop-Up Events!

In May, NYC Health + Hospitals and the NYC Department of Veterans’ Services are holding Veteran Pop-Ups to honor Military Appreciation Month. These events provide veterans and their families with the support they need to access benefits from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Since their launch in early 2024, over 300 people have benefited from these pop-ups.

One inspiring story is that of Melissa Johnson-Collado, an Assistant Coordinating Manager at NYC Health + Hospitals/Queens. For two decades, Melissa struggled to obtain her DD 214, a crucial document that confirms her status as a U.S. military veteran. Her journey was filled with setbacks and doubt, but thanks to the Veteran Pop-Up, she finally received her DD 214 within 24 hours.

“I had lost hope. It was haunting me,” she said. “When I went to the Veteran Pop-Up, I never expected it to be so quick. I finally got closure and became officially recognized as a veteran.”

With her DD 214, Melissa is now entitled to various military benefits. This includes government support like education benefits, housing loans, and health care. But for her, the most rewarding part was being able to share this achievement with her family, including visiting her veteran grandfather’s grave.

Melissa joined the military at 16, hoping to secure a better future. “I was the first female in my family to serve. It meant a lot to me and my family,” she shared. Her injury during training halted her military career but also left her feeling lost without proof of her service.

Sadly, many veterans do not access their benefits due to missing paperwork. In New York City, over 200,000 veterans live among us, and the pop-ups aim to support not just them, but also their families. Spouses and children frequently attend to guide their loved ones.

“I love how this program has grown. It brings vital resources to veterans across NYC,” said Cristina Ponsell, Director of Language Access & Support Services at NYC Health + Hospitals. “We hold these events monthly, making sure veterans feel supported in their communities.”

Michael Bocchini, Senior Executive Director of Veterans’ Support Services at the NYC Department of Veterans’ Services, added, “Melissa’s experience shows why we created the Veteran Pop-Up initiative. It’s about restoring trust and access to care for those who have served.”

The Veteran Pop-Ups will continue in the coming months at various locations, each offering essential support and guidance. For many, attending these events is the first step toward reclaiming their rightful benefits.

For those interested in learning more about NYC Health + Hospitals or the Department of Veterans’ Services, additional information can be found on their websites.

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