LUDINGTON, MI – On Veteran’s Day, 102.7 WMOM and Hot Country Hits 99.9 turned the spotlight on a crucial issue affecting many veterans: mental health. In a special interview, Emily Cumming, Veteran Navigator, and Steven VanWyck, Adult Service Coordinator from West Michigan Community Mental Health (WMCMH), shared insights into the Community Mental Health Veterans Navigator program, designed to connect area veterans with essential services.
This comprehensive program aims to provide a wide range of resources to veterans, including transportation, food, budgeting, life planning, military documentation, housing, employment, and healthcare needs. The services are free and available to all veterans, active duty/guard/reserve military personnel, and their families, irrespective of their discharge type or the era served. This initiative is particularly focused on reaching veterans in rural communities.
The Veteran Navigator Program at WMCMH works in close coordination with various individuals and organizations, including Veteran Service Officers (VSOs) in Mason, Lake, and Oceana Counties. These VSOs play a key role in assisting veterans in filing for VA benefits and service-connected claims. The Veteran Navigator helps connect veterans with external resources and services beyond the scope of VSOs, ensuring comprehensive support.
Veterans and their families can access the Veteran Navigator Program Services at any West Michigan CMH location. The Veteran Navigator is also available to meet with veterans at their homes or other convenient locations and can be found working with VSOs at local NREx Clinics, CMH community events, and is accessible by phone.
For more information or to reach out for services, veterans and their families are encouraged to contact the Veterans Navigator at West Michigan Community Mental Health by calling (231) 239-1178 or 1 (800) 992-2061. By contacting the front desk at any location or visiting in person, staff can schedule an appointment with the Veteran Navigator, offering a pathway to much-needed support and assistance.