Overton Brooks VA outlines homeless‑veteran, crisis and mental‑health resources to Caddo Parish Commission

Representatives from Overton Brooks VA Medical Center visited the Caddo Parish Commission on May 18 to describe services available to veterans, especially programs that address homelessness, mental health and crisis response.

David Hodgej, public affairs officer; Jennifer Kursup, public affairs specialist; and Tanisha Lyons (healthcare for homeless veterans) explained that the VA provides assessment, peer specialists, clinical social work, residential programs and community outreach events designed to identify and assist veterans in need. Lyons emphasized the goal of housing and wraparound support: "Our number one target is to provide veterans and their families a place to live," she said.

Staff highlighted the veterans crisis hotline (dial 988 and press 1) and said emergency rooms and VA after‑hours services can be used for crisis response. They also noted partnerships with community organizations, including referrals to Volunteers of America for housing services when veterans do not qualify for certain VA programs. Printed resource materials were left for commissioners to distribute at community meetings.

Commissioners asked about eligibility rules and whether less‑than‑honorable discharges affect access; staff answered that eligibility rules vary by case and service connection but noted service‑connected and 50% disabled veterans receive broad coverage. The VA representatives offered to return for follow‑up and provide additional materials for local distribution.