The MDVA Women Veterans/Inclusion Program was established in August 2021 to collaborate with the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, state and local governments, and community organizations to coordinate events to raise awareness of the needs of Maryland’s women, minority, and underserved veteran populations. A statewide advisory group has convened to identify resources to support and advocate on behalf of this group of veterans.
Resources for Women Veterans
The US Department of Veterans Affairs Center for Women Veterans monitors and coordinates VA health care, benefits, services, and programs for women veterans. The Center serves as an advocate for cultural transformation and to raise awareness of the responsibility to treat women veterans with dignity and respect.
HEALTHCARE
The US Department of Veterans Affairs Women’s Health Transition Training is available to service women and women veterans to take anytime. The course provides important information on women’s healthcare services available from the VA post separation from the military. Learn more and take the training here.
Even if you have private health insurance there is value in learning more about VA healthcare and what benefits you may be able to access at VA. Learn more here.
Did you know veterans can receive care in the community? VA provides care to Veterans through community providers when VA cannot provide the care needed. Community care is based on specific eligibility requirements, availability of VA care, and the needs and circumstances of individual Veterans. Learn more here.
VA BENEFITS
There are several ways to apply for VA benefits depending on the type of benefit you are seeking. It is recommended that veterans work with an accredited veterans benefits specialist who can assist you with the claims process.
EMPLOYMENT, BUSINESS OWNERSHIP, AND STATE SCHOLARSHIPS
The US Department of Veterans Affairs Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) Program helps with job training, employment accommodations, resume development, and job seeking skills coaching. Other services may be provided to assist veterans and servicemembers in starting their own businesses or independent living services for those who are severely disabled and unable to work in traditional employment. Learn more here.
The US Department of Veterans Affairs Compensated Work Therapy Program provides support to veterans living with mental illness or physical impairment with barriers to employment to secure and maintain community based competitive employment. To begin the process of determining with services are appropriate, veterans must first meet with their healthcare provider. Learn more here.
The Women Veteran-Owned Small Business Initiative is the first program of its kind in the federal government. The initiative’s mission is to equip, empower and educate women veteran entrepreneurs for success and economic opportunities. Learn more here.
The Maryland Department of Labor wants to help veterans and transitioning service members find their next career. The first step is to contact a local American Job Center for assistance. Maryland’s American Job Centers offer a variety of services to assist veterans, transitioning military personnel, and other qualified individuals. Priority of service is given to veterans and their eligible spouses who meet certain eligibility requirements.
The Maryland Higher Education Commission offers several higher education scholarships for eligible veterans and dependents. Learn more here.
HOUSING
The Maryland Department of Veterans Affairs hosts a number of housing resources on its website. For rental housing information to homeless resources visit the webpage here.
INFORMATION FOR TRANSITIONING SERVICE MEMBERS
The US Department of Veterans Affairs Solid Start Program is calling every newly separated service member three times during their first year of separation. VA will be reaching out to help veterans better understand available benefits. VA will inform veterans about what to expect during this critical time and help to build a solid start to civilian life. Learn more here.
Additional Resources
US Department of Veterans Affairs Center for Minority Veterans
US Department of Veterans Affairs LGBTQ+ Health Program
Veteran ID Cards
For more information on the MDVA Women Veterans/Inclusion Program and to learn more, contact:
Ms. Roslyn Jones
Women Veterans/Inclusion Program Manager
Maryland Department of Veterans Affairs
16 Francis Street, 4th Floor
Annapolis, MD 21401
410-260-3971
roslyn.jones1@maryland.gov
1-888-373-7888
233733