Veterans One Stop increases access to mental health and other resources

PLEASANT VALLEY —  Mental Health America of Dutchess County opened its Veterans One Stop facility on April 21, bringing together in one building several different services and resources for veterans.

“Since our Division of Veterans Services moved from our former office in the Poughkeepsie Journal Building in the City of Poughkeepsie to the MHA Veterans One Stop in January, we’ve seen foot traffic to our office triple,” said Dutchess County Executive Office communications director Colleen Pillus.

The building was donated to MHA by the owners of Pleasant Valley Medical Arts LLC in 2022 and houses MHA’s Vet2Vet program, Dutchess County Veterans Services, Hudson Valley Veterans Alliance, Veterans Sportsmens Association, and the federal Veterans Administration offices. The facility also has a food drive and a clothing and household closet, where everything is donated by the community and is free-of-charge to local veterans.

MHA executive director Andrew O’Grady said, “This building is a game-changer. It has enabled us to expand our successful Vet2Vet programs and bring together the key veteran’s services agencies, including Dutchess County Veterans Services, under one roof, making it easier than ever for our veterans to access services.”

Veterans One Stop gives veterans a stepping stone to getting help in their own community. The facility provides services including support groups, social activities, assistance in finding housing and employment, advocacy, emotional support, referrals to other services, and short-term care management.

“As a veteran myself, and having worked with many of our former servicemembers, I know the difficulties many encounter when they return to civilian life,” said Pillus. “For veterans to have a hub for services is a godsend.”

Veterans’ mental health has been a consistent issue in the United States. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the average number of veteran suicides per day rose from 16.4 in 2001 to 16.8 in 2020.

“We aim to reach every veteran in Dutchess County and enhance their lives,” said Pillus. “In just the few months it’s been open, the Veterans One Stop has helped us get closer to that ultimate goal: Making it easier for our veterans to find us and our fellow tenants, all of whom are eager to assist them.”

If you or a veteran you know is in need of resources or assistance, call Veterans One Stop 845-473-2500 ext. 1306, or call the Veteran’s Crisis Line at 988 and press 1.