New Jersey Veterans Resource Guide

There are more than 340,000 veterans living in New Jersey. These brave men and women have sacrificed so much for our freedom and our safety, and yet too often, they are left alone deal with the aftermath of their service.

Among the 340,000 veterans living in New Jersey are over 53,000 veterans with disabilities. In addition, many veterans suffer from mental illness, homelessness, substance abuse, and other issues as a result of their time in the military.

We believe that each and every veteran in New Jersey should be treated with respect and dignity. More importantly, we believe in the importance of connecting vets with the resources that they need, whether it be substance abuse treatment, employment opportunities, or housing programs. That is why we have compiled this guide: to connect the veteran community with the services and programs that they may need across New Jersey.

Jump To:

• Crisis Lines
• Housing Programs
• Employment Programs
• Transition Programs
• Benefits
• VA Hospitals
• Substance Abuse Centers
• Support Groups & Counseling
• Women’s Resources
• PTSD Resources
• Transportation
• Food Banks
• Advocacy Organizations
• Education

Crisis Lines

Far too many veterans return from service and find themselves in crisis.According to data from the Veterans Administration, between 1999 and 2010, 22 veterans were dying by suicide every day. In New Jersey alone, 67 veterans died by suicide in 2016 alone.

These statistics do not have to be reality for veterans.There are a number of options for veterans, including crisis lines where individuals can all for immediate help.Many of these hotlines are staffed by fellow veterans, who are uniquely qualified to understand the experiences of veterans in crisis.

Housing Programs

For many veterans, the transition back to civilian life can be challenging.It is often complicated by mental health conditions related to service, such as post-traumatic stress disorder, trauma and substance abuse.Fortunately, there are a number of resources available to assist veterans in New Jersey with transitional and permanent housing as well as homelessness prevention services.

Employment Programs

The New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs extends preference to certain veterans for civil service positions in state, county and municipal employment.Other benefits for veterans may be available through the state and other programs.

Transition Programs

One of the most challenging aspects of leaving the military can be the transition back into life as a civilian.This is particularly true for those who served in any type of combat position.The VA offers two transitional programs in New Jersey specifically designed to help veterans move back into civilian life after service.

Benefits

In New Jersey, the state offers a number of benefits designed to assist veterans returning from service.These programs range from tax exemptions to free hunting and fishing licenses to special benefits for those enrolled in the state pension system.Veterans may qualify for one of more of these programs, particularly if they were injured as a result of their service.

VA Hospitals

For anyone who served in the military and was discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable, the VA provides healthcare through its hospitals and clinics. This may include service Reserve and National Guard.There are a number of VA hospitals and medical centers throughout New Jersey.

Substance Abuse Centers

There is a strong correlation between military service, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and substance abuse.According to the VA, more than 2 out of 10 veterans with PTSD also have substance use disorder.For every 3 veterans seeking treatment for substance abuse, almost 1 has PTSD.

Overcoming addiction can be challenging, particularly if a person is dealing with other conditions related to service, such as PTSD.Fortunately, there are a number of treatment centers across New Jersey that can work with veterans.More information about these programs, including the types of insurance accepted, can be available through the New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.

Support Groups & Counseling

Support groups, individual counseling, and other forms of therapy can be incredibly effective ways of handling the challenges that many veterans face upon returning to civilian life.In New Jersey, there are multiple support groups and programs that are specifically geared to veterans and the unique issues that they face.

Women’s Resources

Despite ongoing efforts to combat military sexual assault (MSA), the latest statistics released by the Pentagon show an increase in sexual assaults.In 2018, the Pentagon estimated that 20,500 service members were sexually assaulted, including 13,000 women and 7,500 men.The majority of these assaults were not formally reported.

Female veterans often struggle with distinct issues related to their service.In New Jersey, there are services specifically geared towards women who need resources, including a referral line and a VA center for women’s health issues.

PTSD Resources

Post-traumatic stress disorder, commonly referred to as PTSD, is a condition that results from a traumatic event.Many military veterans develop PTSD as a result of their service.Each person may experience PTSD differently, but it can be an incredibly disruptive and life-changing condition.

While it is difficult to overcome PTSD, there is help.There are two main treatments for the disorder: psychotherapy and medication.There are a number of VA Centers in New Jersey that offer specific services for veterans with PTSD.

Transportation

For many veterans, getting to and from appointments at VA hospitals, centers and clinics can be challenging.While there are VA offices across the state, they can be difficult to access without a vehicle.In New Jersey, there are several free or low cost programs to help veterans with transportation to the VA and other places.

Food Banks

For veterans who struggle with food insecurity, a food bank can be a lifeline.While most food banks in New Jersey provide assistance to veterans, the following two specifically offer mobile food bank services to veterans in their community.

Advocacy Organizations

One of the most important aspects of life post-service for any veteran is finding a community.This often includes being able to spend time with people who had a similar experience.The following advocacy organizations not only assist veterans with specific issues, but many provide a place for veterans to come together socially.

Education

Many veterans put their education on hold to serve their country.Recognizing this sacrifice, the state of New Jersey offers a number of options to assist veterans in obtaining a degree.This also includes some tuition programs for the children of veterans.