Resources for Veterans in Orlando
Whether you’re a seasoned veteran facing challenges or a compassionate individual seeking ways to support homeless veterans, navigating assistance resources for veterans in Orlando can be daunting. The National Veterans Homeless Support (NVHS) understands the profound impact of having readily accessible resources for veterans in need. Our commitment extends beyond mere outreach efforts; it lies in empowering veterans with essential tools and information to transform lives before they reach crisis points.
We recognize timely access to resources can help to prevent homelessness and provide crucial support during critical adjustment periods. From housing solutions to healthcare options, employment opportunities, and educational benefits, the resources compiled here serve as a lifeline for veterans seeking stability and a renewed sense of purpose.
Whether you’re seeking help for yourself or trying to assist someone else, we encourage you to explore these resources. Our mission is to ensure every veteran has access to the services and support they deserve. Each resource represents a potential turning point, offering immediate aid and pathways to long-term resilience and well-being. Together, let’s ensure that no veteran faces adversity alone, armed with the knowledge that support is always available and accessible.
Here are some great starting points for veterans’ who are seeking assistance:
Healthcare Services
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
Despite certain difficulties in dealing with the VA, it continues to be a pivotal institution in addressing the unique needs of veterans, with programs designed to cover various aspects of a veteran’s life. They offer various services, from healthcare to benefits and crisis support.
The VA provides extensive healthcare services, including primary care, specialty care, mental health services, rehabilitation services, and more. It strives to deliver high-quality care to veterans and ensures that their physical and mental well-being is prioritized.
The VA offers veterans many benefits, from financial support to educational opportunities. These benefits are designed to help veterans transition back into civilian life and achieve their personal and professional goals.
Also, the VA is dedicated to providing immediate support for veterans in crisis. They offer multiple avenues for veterans to seek help, ensuring that no veteran is left without the necessary support in times of need.
Vet Centers Locations in the Orlando area:
- Orlando Vet Center:
- 5575 South Semoran Blvd. Suite 30, Orlando, FL 32822
- 407-857-2800
- Hours: Monday – Friday 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
- Clermont Vet Center:
- 1655 East Highway 50, Suite 102, Clermont, FL 34711
- 352-536-6701
- Hours: Monday – Friday 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
- Lakeland Vet Center:
- 1370 Ariana St. Lakeland, FL 33803
- 863-284-0841
- Hours: Monday – Friday 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
VA Medical Centers in the Orlando area:
- Lake Baldwin VA Clinic:
- 5201 Raymond St. Orlando, FL 32803
- Main phone: 407-646-5500
- VA health connect: 877-741-3400
- Mental health care: 407-646-5400
- Hours: Monday 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Tuesday – Friday 8:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
- Orlando VA Medical Center:
- 13800 Veterans Way, Orlando, FL 32827
- Main number: 407-631-1000
- VA health connect: 877-741-3400
- Mental health: 407-631-2050
- Hours: 24/7
- Kissimmee VA Clinic:
- 701 Union St. Kissimmee, FL 34741
- Main number: 407-518-5004
- VA health connect: 877-741-3400
- Mental health: 407-518-5004
- Hours: Monday – Friday 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- Clermont VA Clinic:
- 3200 Citrus Tower Blvd. Clermont, FL 34711
- Main number: 352-536-8200
- VA health connect: 877-741-3400
- Mental health: 352-536-8200
- Hours: Monday – Friday 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Crisis Intervention Hotlines
Veterans Crisis Line is a 24/7 hotline where veterans can speak with trained responders who understand the challenges they may be facing. Not enrolled in VA benefits or health care? Veterans Crisis Line can still help you.
Call the Veterans Crisis Line: For immediate support, call 1-800-273-8255 or 988, then press 1.
No one should face a mental health crisis alone. Dial 988 to connect with mental health crisis services. Mental health crises can be overwhelming and isolating, but help is just a phone call away. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you or someone you know is struggling. The Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is staffed with trained professionals ready to provide support during these difficult times.
Dial 988 for immediate help.
The Florida Veterans Foundation
The Florida Veterans Crisis Line provides round-the-clock support and counseling. Contact the Florida Veterans Support Line at 1-844-MyFLVet (1-844-693-5838) or dial 211 for assistance.
Community Health Centers
The Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) offers a list of community-based health centers that provide primary care to vulnerable individuals and families. HRSA’s community health centers are a lifeline for many, providing essential medical services regardless of one’s ability to pay. These centers are crucial in maintaining the health and well-being of underserved populations.
Community Health Centers in Apopka is a community-driven healthcare organization dedicated to serving our patients and their families locally, in the neighborhoods that they live and trust. They are one of Orange County’s largest healthcare non-profits, caring for over 65,000 patients annually. They offer a range of primary care and specialty services, including family medicine, dental, OB/GYN, optometry, pharmacy, behavioral health, and lab work.
To learn more, call 407-905-8827 or visit chcfl.org to find the location closest to you.
Community and Nonprofit Organizations
Many local organizations offer hands-on help for veterans experiencing homelessness or instability. For services outside of Central Florida, call 211 to be connected with local resources.
The Orange County Veterans Services Office assists with benefits claims for veterans and their eligible family members. In full support of the Mayor’s Veterans Advisory Council, the Office also serves as the primary contact for residents to learn about and receive Veteran resources and services.
- Location: 2100 E Michigan St., Orlando, FL 32806
- Contact: 407-836-8990
Housing Assistance in Orlando
The best way for a homeless Veteran to get a housing referral is to talk to their primary care provider at the VA. The VA provides referrals to the homeless Veteran outreach team. The VA provides funding for transitional housing located at various programs in Brevard, including:
- Christian Service Center:
- 808 West Central Blvd
- 407-425-2523
- Coalition for the Homeless:
- 18 N Terry Ave. Orlando, FL 32801
- 407-652-5320
- volunteer@cflhomeless.org
- Straight Street Orlando:
- 808 W Central Blvd. Orlando, FL 32805
- naseeka@straightst.org
Orlando Homeless Shelters and Support Services
Local homeless shelters and support services are crucial in providing immediate relief and support to those in need. They offer essentials such as meals, shelter, and various forms of assistance to help individuals get back on their feet.
- Salvation Army Men’s Shelter
- 624 Lexington Ave. Orlando, FL 32804
- 407-423-8581
- Salvation Army Women’s & Children’s Shelter
- 400 West Colonial Dr. Orlando, FL 32804
- Coalition for the Homeless Intake Center
- 18 N. Terry Ave. Orlando, Florida 32801
- Intake Hours: Monday – Friday 7:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
- ID required
- 407-872-5790
- Rescue Outreach Mission
- 1701 W 13th St, Sanford, FL 32771
- 407-321-8224
- Harbor House of Central Florida Domestic Abuse Shelter
Social Service Organizations
Social service organizations like the Heart of Florida United Way and the Salvation Army of Orlando are pillars of the community, offering a wide range of support services. From emergency assistance to long-term support programs, these organizations work tirelessly to improve the lives of those who’ve served.
- The Heart of Florida United Way
- 1940 Cannery Way, Orlando, FL 32804
- 407-835-0900
- Salvation Army of Orlando
- 3899 W Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL 32808
- 321-398-5520
- United Against Poverty
- 150 W Michigan St, Orlando, FL 32806
- 407-650-0774
- Pathway Homes of Florida
- 7751 Kingspointe Pkwy. Orlando, FL 32819
- 407-205-2266
- Christian Service Center
- 808 West Central Blvd
- 407-425-2523
- Coalition for the Homeless
- 18 N Terry Ave. Orlando, FL 32801
- 407-652-5320
Find Help with NVHS
At NVHS, our mission is to end veteran homelessness in Orlando by offering extensive resources and dedicated support. Recognizing the sacrifices made by veterans, we are committed to providing the necessary assistance to get them back on their feet. Whether you seek support, we stand ready to guide you every step of the way. Looking to contribute in any way, our team welcomes volunteers and donations to help us on our mission. If you have any inquiries or need assistance, please reach out, and we will do our best to support you.