New Mexico veterans outreach vehicle completes first tour of all 33 counties

New Mexico’s veterans outreach vehicle has completed its first tour of all 33 counties after visiting 55 communities and assisting more than 400 veterans and family members.

New Mexico veterans outreach vehicle completes first tour of all 33 counties
The New Mexico Department of Veterans’ Services Mobile Outreach Vehicle has completed its first tour of all 33 counties after visiting 55 communities since January. (Courtesy photo / New Mexico Department of Veterans’ Services)

The mobile unit has visited 55 communities and reached more than 400 veterans and family members since launching in January

Organ Mountain News report

SANTA FE - A mobile unit designed to bring veterans services directly to rural and tribal communities has completed its first tour of all 33 New Mexico counties.

The New Mexico Department of Veterans’ Services said its Mobile Outreach Vehicle reached its final county in late August with a stop at the Chaves County Joy Center in Dexter.

Since launching Jan. 30 at Jemez Pueblo, the unit has visited 55 communities and reached more than 400 veterans and family members.

“Reaching every county in New Mexico reflects our commitment to meeting veterans where they are, especially in rural and tribal communities,” Cabinet Secretary Jamison Herrera said in a statement.

The vehicle is staffed by accredited veterans service officers and is equipped with onboard power, satellite internet and a wheelchair lift.

Veterans and eligible family members can receive one-on-one help with VA disability compensation claims, health care enrollment, pensions, survivor benefits, military records requests and state veterans benefits.

Assistance is also available for property tax certificates, Lifetime Parks Passes and other benefits-related services.

The department said the statewide tour has also helped strengthen connections with tribal communities, local governments, veterans organizations and other community partners.

Many communities have already requested return visits.

The department plans to continue operating the mobile unit statewide.

Upcoming stops are listed HERE.

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