In a significant step toward improving access to resources for at-risk veterans with unmet needs in New Jersey, Education and Health Centers of America, Inc. (EHCA) has partnered with the New Jersey Department of Military and Veteran Affairs (DMAVA) to expand efforts in supporting the veteran community throughout the state. EHCA’s Veteran Resource Program, which provides critical gap services to veterans in need, recently received $500,000 in state funding from DMAVA, in support of the program’s initiatives. To celebrate this partnership and express gratitude toward our veteran clients, a Veteran Luncheon was held at Veteran’s Haven North in Glen Gardner, New Jersey, on Friday, November 22, 2024. Hosted by EHCA, in partnership with DMAVA, the luncheon brought veterans, community leaders, and representatives from both organizations together to celebrate the veteran community. Notable leadership included, Vincent Solomeno III, Deputy Commissioner of Veterans Affairs, DMAVA, Esther Chucaralao, Director of Veteran Services, DMAVA, Richard McCourt, President and Chief Executive Officer, EHCA, and David Culley, Superintendent of Veteran’s Haven North, DMAVA.
Veteran’s Haven North, a transitional housing program for unhoused veterans, has been a longstanding community partner of EHCA and a beacon of hope for our veteran clients. The luncheon provided an opportunity to highlight the important work done at the facility and the transformative impact of programs like those offered by EHCA and DMAVA.
One of the highlights of the luncheon was an award presented by EHCA to the Superintendent of Veteran’s Haven North, David Culley. This award recognized the superintendent’s dedication and leadership in creating a supportive environment for veterans, ensuring veterans receive the community resources needed to rebuild their lives. The moment served as a powerful reminder of the importance of collaboration and leadership in advancing veteran services in the state of New Jersey.
The partnership between EHCA and DMAVA reflects a broader effort to address the unique challenges faced by veterans in the community. From housing insecurity to mental health and substance use disorder treatment, veterans require a wide range of services to thrive post-service. The collaboration between EHCA and DMAVA stands as a testament to what can be achieved when organizations unite to serve a common goal. Together, we look forward to paving the way for brighter futures for New Jersey’s veterans.
Stay tuned for more collaborations!
Photos courtesy of New Jersey Department of Military and Veteran Affairs (DMAVA, Professional Flickr Gallery from November 22, 2024 event)
