5 Life-Saving Resources Every Tallahassee Veteran Should Know This Suicide Prevention Month

September marks Suicide Prevention Month—a crucial time for the Tallahassee veteran community to raise awareness, support one another, and share vital suicide prevention resources. Every veteran’s life is priceless, and together, we can ensure our brothers and sisters in arms know they are never alone. This month, American Legion Sauls-Bridges Post 13 is committed to spreading hope, knowledge, and veteran awareness with urgency and compassion.

The Power of Awareness: Suicide Prevention Is Everyone’s Mission

Veterans face many battles, even after service ends. The reality is sobering: Florida’s veteran suicide rate is more than double the general population, making local action essential for saving lives. By shining a spotlight on suicide prevention and encouraging open conversations, we honor those lost and inspire hope for those struggling. The American Legion’s “Be the One” initiative is rooted in the belief that each person can make a difference—by reaching out, sharing resources, and being a lifeline for someone in need.

Trusted Local Resources for Veterans in Crisis

Veterans and families in Tallahassee have immediate access to suicide prevention and mental health support:

1. Veterans Crisis Line: If you are feeling suicidal or in emotional distress, call or text the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or reach out through chat by visiting www.988lifeline.org/chat/

2. Tallahassee VA Clinic: Get mental health care, behavioral health, and referrals. Contact the clinic for details by calling 850-513-7058 or go to https://www.va.gov/north-florida-health-care/locations/sergeant-ernest-i-boots-thomas-va-clinic/

3. Florida Veterans Support Line: The Florida Veterans Support Line can be reached by calling 1-844-MYFLVET (693-5838), a 24/7 confidential service that connects veterans and their families with emotional support and community resources.

4. Leon County Veteran Services: The mission of the Leon County Division of Veteran Services is to assist veterans and their dependents in securing all entitled benefits earned through honorable military service and to advocate for the interest of veterans in the community. Call 850-606-1940 or go to https://cms.leoncountyfl.gov/Government/Departments/Human-Services-Community-Partnerships/Veteran-Services

5. Tallahassee Vet Center: Offer confidential help for Veterans, service members, and their families at no cost in a non-medical setting. Their services include counseling for needs such as depression, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and the psychological effects of military sexual trauma (MST).

September Events: Suicide Prevention & Mental Health Awareness

Supporting mental health—all year, but especially this month—means showing up and connecting:

• Monthly Veteran Luncheon: September 9, 11:30 am–1 pm, National Guard Armory, 1225 Easterwood Drive. Spaghetti lunch, camaraderie, and support.

• Veterans Resource Fair: Jacksonville, September 11, 10 am–2 pm, Vystar Veterans Memorial Arena.

• Remembrance Ceremony: September 11, 8:30 am at Red Cross (9/11 Beam Memorial), Easterwood Drive.

• S.A.V.E. Training (VA): Thursday, September 18, 11 am–noon, Wakulla County Public Library. Suicide prevention education for all; flyer available at Post 13.

• POW/MIA Ceremony: September 19, 8 pm, Tallahassee National Cemetery Administration Building; arrive by 7 pm for seating.

• Tallahassee VA Clinic Suicide Prevention Month Event: September 23, 9 am–2 pm at VA Clinic, 2181 East Orange Avenue. Suicide prevention training (12–2 pm, 3rd floor conference room, includes lunch; pre-registration required).

• Out of the Darkness Walk: Sunday, November 2, 1 pm, Cascades Park. Raise suicide awareness and support local veterans. Register at afsp.org/tallahassee.

Volunteer and Training Opportunities—Be the One Who Makes a Difference

Take an active role in supporting suicide prevention. The Florida Governor’s Challenge (https://floridavets.org/governors-challenge/) and VA S.A.V.E. (https://news.va.gov/138931/suicide-prevention-va-s-a-v-e-training/) training programs empower community members with skills to recognize distress and get veterans the help they need. Opportunities for volunteering and peer support abound—reach out to Post 13 for details on new programs and ways to get involved in Suicide Prevention Month.

Call to Action

Suicide prevention and veteran awareness depend on community action. By using local resources, joining September events, and fostering open dialogue, Tallahassee’s veteran community can transform mental health support and ensure hope overcomes despair. It’s a shared mission—and every effort counts.

Attend an event, speak up, or share these resources with your veteran network. If you’re struggling, or know someone who is—help is always available. Join Sauls-Bridges Post 13 in making this Suicide Prevention Month a turning point for veteran safety and support. Together, let’s “Be the One” to save lives and strengthen our community.

7 Essential Education Resources Every Veteran Family in Tallahassee Should Know

It's Back To School TIme

As summer winds down and the school year approaches, veteran families in Tallahassee face unique challenges and opportunities. Whether you’re a veteran returning to school, supporting a spouse’s educational journey, or making sure your children thrive, knowing where to find help can make all the difference. Sauls-Bridges Post 13 is proud to stand by your side with vital veteran education resources and school programs designed just for you.

Unlocking Veteran Education Benefits Locally

Veterans and their families have access to an array of education benefits—it’s just a matter of connecting with the right programs.

• Post-9/11 GI Bill & Other VA Benefits: If you haven’t explored your federal education options yet, start with the American Legion’s Education Center, which breaks down GI Bill benefits, scholarships, and advice for veterans navigating higher education. The Department of Florida’s Veteran Resources also offers localized insight on opportunities in our state.

• Florida State Tuition Waivers: The State of Florida provides tuition waivers and scholarships for eligible veterans, dependents, and Gold Star families. Visit the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs Education Section for a comprehensive guide.

• Tallahassee-Area College & Career Services: Local institutions like Florida State University and Tallahassee Community College have dedicated support offices for veterans. Reach out to their veterans’ services for personalized help with paperwork, tuition, and veteran student life. Check out TCC’s Veterans Success Center for more information.

School Programs for Military Kids

School transitions can be tough for military-connected children. The American Legion’s Temporary Financial Assistance program and our local Florida Legion Child Welfare Foundation help ensure that families have resources for school supplies and emergencies. Meanwhile, Leon County School District participates in the national Purple Star School Program, which supports military families facing frequent moves and deployments.

Scholarships & Leadership Opportunities

Find scholarships tailored to veterans, spouses, and children through the American Legion Department of Florida Scholarships page. Junior ROTC, American Legion Oratorical contests, and Boys State/Girls State are all outstanding ways for students to build leadership, earn merit, and make lifelong connections.

Tutoring, Counseling, and Community Support

Need extra support this school year? The FloridaLegionPost13.org Resources page regularly updates local contacts for tutoring programs, academic counseling, and mental health services for veterans and their families. Our Post’s family-friendly environment welcomes veterans of all ages to connect and support one another.

Sauls-Bridges Post 13: Your Partner in Educational Success

Whether you’re enrolling in higher education, guiding your children through new schools, or seeking a new professional path, you’re not alone. Sauls-Bridges Post 13 is committed to supporting every phase of your educational journey. We invite you to reach out, attend an upcoming event, or connect with our veteran-friendly network.

Take Action Today

Explore these veteran education and school program resources, share them with other veteran families, and help us build a stronger community together. Do you know a program we should feature? Contact us at Sauls-Bridges Post 13 and let’s make sure no veteran or child is left behind this school year!

7 Ways to Honor Military Caregivers This May: Support the Hidden Heroes of Our Veteran Community

May is Month of the Military Caregiver

Every May, we recognize the Month of the Military Caregiver-a time to honor the unwavering dedication of those who care for our nation’s wounded, ill, and injured veterans. These selfless individuals are the backbone of our veteran families, providing daily support, comfort, and hope. At American Legion Sauls-Bridges Post 13, we stand united in gratitude for military caregivers and invite our Tallahassee community to join us in celebrating their vital contributions.

Who Are Military Caregivers?

Military caregivers are spouses, parents, children, friends, and neighbors who step up to care for veterans facing physical or emotional challenges after their service. Their sacrifices often go unseen, yet their impact is profound. According to the Elizabeth Dole Foundation, more than 5.5 million Americans serve as military caregivers, facing unique challenges that can affect their own health, finances, and well-being.

The responsibilities of military caregivers can be demanding and complex, frequently involving tasks that go far beyond traditional caregiving, such as helping veterans cope with behavioral health challenges, navigating VA benefits, and coordinating care among multiple providers. This role can impact every member of the family, transforming relationships and daily routines as loved ones adjust to new realities. Despite their critical contributions, military caregivers often face unique challenges, including emotional stress, financial strain, and social isolation, and may not always have access to the resources and support they need.

How Can We Support Military Caregivers?

Here are seven meaningful ways you can honor and assist military caregivers in our community this May:

1. Reach Out and Listen

Sometimes, a simple phone call or visit can make a world of difference. Let caregivers know they are not alone and that their efforts are valued.

2. Connect Them to Resources

Share information about local and national support programs. The American Legion offers resources for caregivers, including guidance on VA benefits, mental health support, and community connections. Our own Sauls-Bridges Post 13 provides a welcoming space for veterans and their families to find support.

3. Volunteer Your Time

Offer a helping hand with daily errands, transportation, or respite care. Even a few hours can provide much-needed relief.

4. Advocate for Caregiver Rights

Stay informed about legislation that impacts military caregivers. The American Legion Department of Florida regularly updates members on advocacy efforts and ways to get involved.

5. Attend or Organize Community Events

Join us at Post 13 for upcoming events that celebrate caregivers and foster camaraderie among veterans and families. Check our Events Calendar for opportunities to connect.

6. Share Their Stories

Help shine a light on the experiences of military caregivers by sharing their stories-either on social media or at community gatherings. Their voices deserve to be heard.

7. Express Your Gratitude

A heartfelt “thank you” goes a long way. Whether in person or through a note, let caregivers know their service to our veterans is deeply appreciated.

Local Resources for Military Caregivers

Tallahassee is home to a strong network of veteran support organizations. Sauls-Bridges Post 13 is committed to connecting caregivers with local resources, including counseling, financial assistance, and peer support groups. Visit our website or contact us directly to learn more about available services.

• American Legion Sauls-Bridges Post 13 - Our Post at Lake Ella is a hub for veterans and their families, offering camaraderie, events, and direct support. Visit our website or stop by to learn about upcoming caregiver-focused gatherings and resources.

• VA North Florida/South Georgia Caregiver Support - The Tallahassee VA Outpatient Clinic offers counseling, support groups, and caregiver assistance. Connect with a local caregiver support coordinator for personalized guidance and access to VA programs, including the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC), which may provide stipends, training, and respite care. Learn more at the VA Caregiver Support page or call 855-260-3274 for immediate help.

• Tallahassee Vet Center - Provides counseling and support groups specifically for veterans and their families, helping caregivers manage stress and build resilience.

• 211 Big Bend & Florida Veterans Support Line - For emotional support, crisis counseling, or resource navigation, call 211 or the Florida Veterans Support Line at 1-844-MyFLVet (1-844-693-5838).

• Comfort Keepers & SYNERGY HomeCare - Local agencies like Comfort Keepers and SYNERGY HomeCare offer in-home care and respite services, giving caregivers a much-needed break while ensuring veterans receive compassionate assistance.

• Tallahassee Veterans Village (VOA Florida) - Provides transitional housing and supportive services for veterans and their caregivers, including case management and mental health support.

Technology is transforming the way military caregivers and veterans access support

Empowering Caregivers with Technology

Technology is transforming the way military caregivers and veterans access support, connect with resources, and manage daily challenges. From secure telehealth platforms to apps designed for mental wellness and community coordination, tech tools empower caregivers to find help when and where they need it most. By embracing these digital resources, caregivers in Tallahassee and beyond can strengthen their support networks, streamline care, and focus on what matters most-caring for those who have served.

• Lotsa Helping Hands - Caring for a veteran often means juggling appointments, meals, and daily tasks-sometimes with little help. That’s where the free app Lotsa Helping Hands comes in. Designed specifically for caregivers, this tool helps families and friends organize support through a shared care calendar, schedule meal deliveries, coordinate rides, and send well wishes-all in one place.

• VA Video Connect (VVC) - This free and secure app from the Department of Veterans Affairs allows caregivers and family members to participate in Veterans’ VA healthcare appointments via live video. It helps caregivers stay involved in the veteran’s care plan without needing to travel, reducing stress and improving access to medical support. It is available on Apple and Google Play stores and is especially useful for those in rural areas or with mobility challenges.

• Outpatient App - Designed for healthcare workflow and medical readiness, this app supports scheduling, video communication, task assignments, and notifications for military medical services and family caregivers. It is HIPAA-compliant and used across military medical services to streamline care coordination, making it easier for caregivers to manage appointments and communications securely.

• PTSD Coach - Developed by the VA, this app provides mental health support tailored to veterans and their caregivers. It includes self-assessment tools, relaxation exercises, and crisis resources to help manage symptoms of PTSD and stress. It’s a practical tool for caregivers supporting veterans with mental health challenges.

Military caregivers embody the spirit of selfless service, mirroring the values we hold dear at Sauls-Bridges Post 13. As we honor them this May, let’s remember that supporting caregivers strengthens our entire veteran community. Together, we can ensure no caregiver walks alone.