What resources are available to me as a Gallatin County veteran? As a service member, how can I make sure my family is healthy and well? Can I safely honor our vets during the COVID-19 pandemic?

Throughout our nation’s history, military members served in conflicts that would change their lives forever. We witnessed the toll such conflicts took on the health and wellness of our service members, as well as their families and loved ones. Post-traumatic stress, substance abuse, and domestic issues affected generations of post-war Americans. 

Montana has one of the highest per-capita populations of combat veterans in the nation. Typically, there are few resources available to help veterans navigate the challenges they face as they return to civilian life. To help fill this void, the Gallatin City-County Health Department (GCCHD) launched the Veteran Engagement Program in 2014.  

An extension of GCCHD’s Home Visiting Program, the Veteran Engagement Program provides in-home parenting support for service members and veterans with children, from prenatal to age five. Our nurses and family support workers build trusted relationships with veterans and their families. Our staff are dedicated to ensuring our veterans have the resources they need to thrive in their civilian lives. 

The GCCHD staff values the service and sacrifice of our veterans and their families. We are proud and appreciative of our fellow Montanans and their service for our country. We are dedicated to our vital role of promoting the health and wellness of veterans, service members, and their families. 

We will continue offering resources for veterans, as well as seeking new ways to improve the lives of those who have sacrificed to improve ours. Please contact our Home Visiting Program at 406-582-3187, to reach a family support worker. We are here to offer an understanding and considerate ear to listen. 

To protect older and at-risk service members from COVID-19, Veterans Day will look drastically different this year. Many groups have canceled Veterans Day events to reduce contact and crowds around at-risk veterans. If you do choose to celebrate, remember to keep social distance, wear a face cover, wash your hands frequently, and avoid crowds. Together, we can slow the spread of COVID-19 and protect our vulnerable community members. Visit our website for more tips on slowing the spread of COVID-19.  

“To us in America, the reflections of Armistice Day will be filled with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country’s service and with gratitude for the victory, both because of the thing from which it has freed us and because of the opportunity it has given America to show her sympathy with peace and justice in the councils of the nations.” – Woodrow Wilson, 1919.

Resources for Gallatin County veterans:

GCCHD Veteran Engagement Program – support with childcare and health, accessing resources

Veterans Alliance of Southwest Montana – advocacy, legal help, and memorials 

Gallatin County Veteran Benefit – monetary bereavement help for funeral and burial services  

Montana VA Health Care System, Bozeman Clinic – provides outpatient services to eligible Veterans 

Montana Veterans Affairs, Belgrade Office – provide services and assistance for all Montana veterans, surviving spouses, and dependents

Montana State University Veterans Services – ensures student veterans have access to needed resources