LAKEPORT — The first session of Vet Connect in Lakeport took place on Wednesday.
Veterans from throughout Lake County have undergone training, signed oaths of confidentiality and worked diligently to establish a program run by veterans to assist veterans.
The goal is to provide “one-stop shopping” to assist veterans in need of connecting with one or more service providers. The first Lakeport clinic assisted 26 veterans walking through the doors to seek assistance.
Frank Parker, President of the United Veterans Council, said, “Everyone”s hard work has paid off. We are very excited to see this many folks getting the help they need.”
Vet Connect does exactly as the name implies. Veterans are connected directly with the multiple agencies that provide the services and assistance they need. Providers have tables and meeting rooms where they meet personally with the inquiring veteran.
All of the space for the clinic is provided at no-charge, courtesy of Umpqua Bank.
The monthly clinic will take place on the third Wednesday of each month from 9 a.m. to noon at Umpqua Bank located at 805 11th St. in Lakeport.
Monthly clinics are also held the second Wednesday of each month during the same hours at the American Legion Post No. 437 located at 14770 Austin Road in Clearlake.
The volunteer veterans who operate Vet Connect encourage all fellow veterans in need of any type of assistance to drop in during a clinic.
Coffee and doughnuts are provided, the atmosphere is casual and questions are encouraged.
