Association of VA Social Workers

Five years ago, I met Jennifer Kepner who was suffering from pancreatic cancer caused by her exposure to burn pits. Before she passed, she asked me to fight for veterans like her, and I promised her I would. (1/3) latimes.com/politics/story…

The PACT Act extends the period for post-9/11 combat veterans to enroll in VA health care from five years to 10 and also includes a one-year open enrollment for combat veterans who fall outside that time frame military.com/daily-news/202…

In the last week, we heard from countless veterans and advocates about what the PACT Act means to them. Today, it became law. The PACT Act provides healthcare to vets suffering from toxic exposure and is a huge achievement for those who’ve fought for years to get here.

I’ll be on @TPRSource at the top of the hour with Rosie and Le Roy Torres to talk about the #PACTAct and what comes next. tpr.org/podcast/the-so…

Veterans who were exposed to toxic fumes while fighting for our country are heroes, and they deserve world-class benefits and care. Visit bddy.me/3JPvpAB or call 1-800-MyVA411 (800-698-2411). #PACTAct

Racial disparities in discharge rates under Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell makes correcting the harms of the policy a pressing racial justice issue for the @DeptVetAffairs. washingtonpost.com/dc-md-va/2022/…

988? 1-800-273-TALK? You can reach us at both! For those who might not recognize us, 988 is the new, nat'l number to reach our trained crisis counselors. Anyone struggling w/ a #mentalhealth crisis/emergency can reach us at either line, 24/7. 988lifeline.org/faq/ #988Lifeline

Check in on your friends and loved ones. If they're showing emotional distress or signs of suicide, learn how you can #BeThe1To support them: bethe1to.com #MentalHealthMatters

Did you know that you don't have to disclose personal info to receive immediate support from a crisis center? Our #988Lifeline counselors are trained to assist everyone in co-creating a safety plan, regardless of location. Learn more on our FAQ page: 988lifeline.org/faq/

How are you taking care of yourself today?

#SWMonth2022 starts today! Learn about the social workers behind our mission and their commitment to helping Veterans in VHA homeless programs: bit.ly/343SWO1 #RightTimeforSocialWork #SocialWorkMonth @nasw

Join AVASW as we go beyond celebrating social workers...this month we will recognize the myriad ways we serve, educate others on our profession, and remind ourselves why we chose this amazing profession . Happy Social Work Month!