In the effort to provide comprehensive support for veterans, building partnerships with local organizations proves indispensable. These collaborations serve as bridges, connecting veterans with a wide array of services and resources that might otherwise remain elusive. Alaska Warrior Partnership (AKWP) does its best to work with organizations, big and small, to pinpoint the best action plan for supporting each veteran. This was the case for Tonietta Hamilton, a veteran referred to AKWP through an Alaska VA Veterans Experience Action Center (VEAC) Virtual event.
Tonietta 'Tony' Hamilton is an Air Force veteran (' 71-'73). At the time of the referral, Tony needed housing and was living in a hotel. Tony expressed her wish to have consistent, affordable housing. AKWP Case Coordinator Tiana Freeman immediately combed AKWP's network of partners to find the best fit for Tony's circumstances. Tiana connected Tony with the Catholic Social Services (CSS) Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) program. CSS spoke with Tony within the day and promptly began seeking housing resources.
Within a few days, CSS had located an apartment for her. With everything moving so fast, the thought of moving became stressful for Tony. She chose to stay where she was until she was more comfortable moving. CSS remained dedicated, offering continuous support and guidance to ease Tony's transition. A few weeks later, Tony successfully relocated to her new apartment. CSS was able to assist Tony in moving her items to her new home, obtain her a bedframe and a few other household items, and secure a refund for overpayment at the hotel she was residing in.
"I never want to move again; everything I'll need is here!" – Tonietta Hamilton, Air Force Veteran
Thanks to AKWP's connection to the Alaska VA or CSS, Tony lives comfortably in her own place, and no longer in a hotel. From housing assistance to employment opportunities and mental health support, the collective efforts of all organizations work mutually to address the diverse needs of veterans in our communities. These partnerships become lifelines by pooling their expertise and resources, ensuring every veteran can access the vital assistance they deserve.
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