Volunteer
 

Veterans

Services to help Brevard’s “Homeless and Disabled Vets”

Designed specifically to be a transitional solution, our veteran’s program helps homeless veterans with disabilities adapt to stable housing over the course of 18 to 24 months. We help them transition back into the community in a safe, supported way.

Our veterans live in Patriot House, our six-bed, residential facility in Melbourne built on a grant and per diem model.

The home has an updated kitchen, flat-screen TV, pool table, and a beautiful outdoor space. While there, veterans achieve a successful transition with a variety of services, such as:

  • Room & Board at The Patriot House
  • Evaluations
  • Transportation to applicable appointments
  • Daily living skills training
  • Service-connected disability processing assistant

 

Employment Assistance

Custom Employment Services tailored to each individual’s skills and needs are a significant part of our veterans program. Upon completion of the Veterans Transitional program we can provide employment assistance as needed. We work to ensure each of our veterans has the skills and tools they need in order to successfully complete the program.

Getting In to the Program

Most referrals to this program as well as the majority our funding to run Patriot House come through the Veterans Administration (VA).

Bridges is just one link in this cooperative effort toward success. Each veteran in the program must work with at least six organizations including:

  • CareerSource Brevard
  • Division of Vocational Rehabilitation
  • Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF)
  • Disabled American Veterans (DAV)
  • American Legion
  • Circles of Care
  • Brevard Health Alliance
  • Daily Bread

As well as local churches, Ascension Catholic Church, Church on the Rock, First Baptist Church of Melbourne and Church of Christ. Patriot House is also a provider with the Continuum of Care (COC) Brevard Homeless Coalition (BHC) as well as providers on the Veterans Subcommittee for the BHC.

Other helpful resources for veterans

For information about our veterans services, please contact:

Jeffery Gould
Patriot House Program Director
Email: jgould@mybridges.org
Phone: (321) 752-3217

VAS

Bridges BTC also offers services to our nation’s veterans all over the country through our Veterans Advocacy Services (VAS). VAS services are customized for the individual veterans depending on the needs and goals of the individual.

These programs are designed for warriors who rely on their families because of moderate to severe traumatic brain injury, spinal-cord injury, or other neurological conditions. Typically, the warrior’s cognitive or physical challenges limit their opportunities to access resources and activities in their own community. VAS services help reconnect the veterans with their family and the greater community.

Our program is designed as a comprehensive long-term partnership intended to adapt to ever-changing needs. The Independence Program provides support and training for involvement in meaningful activities, including social, recreational, wellness, volunteer work, education, and other living skills.

VAS services are currently available in over 8 states. If you served our country, VAS can help provide hope and support.

Fore more information on VAS please contact info@mybridges.org

Ways to The Arc of Space Coast

We offer multiple ways of giving and supporting the Arc of Space Coast mission and supporting the Brevard special needs community. Donate today or look into how planned giving can help support the cause that means so much to you.