Local Veteran Resources in Indian River County

Life after military service doesn’t come with a roadmap. In Indian River County, many veterans find themselves facing challenges they didn’t anticipate: navigating a confusing VA system, struggling to afford housing, dealing with untreated trauma, or simply trying to access basic needs like food and healthcare. These aren’t just distant issues; they’re happening here in Vero Beach, Sebastian, Fellsmere, and beyond. That’s why having access to Veteran Resources in Indian River County is so important, for real, local support that meets veterans where they are.

If you’re a veteran living in Indian River County and you’re tired of hitting dead ends or not knowing who to trust, you’re in the right place. Whether you’re looking for healthcare, stable housing, food support, or simply someone who won’t give up on you, the resources here are a real starting point. 

You’ve already taken the hardest step by looking for support; now let this guide help you move forward.

A Simple Starting Point

If you’re unsure where to start, that’s okay. Here’s a better way to break it down:

• Start with today. What’s keeping you up at night? Is it housing, your health, money, food, or just feeling overwhelmed?
• Pick one thing. You don’t have to fix everything at once. Choose one area to focus on first.
• Use this guide. Find the correct contact info and location below based on your needs.
• Gather what you can. If you have a DD-214, a photo ID, or any other relevant VA paperwork, please bring it with you. But if you don’t, come anyway.

You’ve already done the hard part, making it this far. The next step? Reach out to your local support system.

Local Help for Veterans in Indian River County

Indian River County has more veteran support than most people realize. The challenge isn’t whether help exists; it’s whether it’s accessible. It’s knowing where to look and how to access it. 

That’s where this guide comes in.

VA Healthcare

Vero Beach VA Clinic

• Address: 372 17th Street, Vero Beach, FL 32960
• Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
• Services: Primary care, nutrition, mental health, social work, and transportation assistance
• Who Qualifies: Enrolled veterans (bring DD-214, ID)
• How to Apply: Call to schedule an intake

This clinic provides essential medical and mental health care, eliminating the need for veterans to travel to West Palm Beach. Many also qualify for transportation support through VA programs or local shuttle services.

County Veteran Services

Indian River County Veterans Services

• Locations:
  • Vero Beach: 2525 St. Lucie Avenue
  • Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. (closed for lunch noon–1 p.m.)
  • Contact: (772) 226‑1395 (Vero) 

• Services:

• • Assistance filing VA claims, pensions, burial benefits
  • Guidance with VA healthcare enrollment
  • Help to request service records and discharge papers
  • Coordination of transportation to the West Palm Beach VA Medical Center

Certified veterans service officers can help you cut through the red tape. If you’re unsure what you’re eligible for, start here.

Food and Basic Needs Support

Food Pantry of Indian River County

• Offers emergency food assistance once a month per household
• Requires proof of Indian River County residency and ID
• Call ahead for availability

Treasure Coast Food Bank – Partner Locations

• Multiple food distribution points throughout the county
• Find your nearest site at feedhopenow.org

United Against Poverty (UAP)

• Location: 1400 27th Street, Vero Beach
• Services: Discounted groceries, job training, crisis counseling
• Special programs for veterans and their families

Indian River County Human Services Pantry

• Location: 1800 27th St, Building B, Vero Beach
• Offers groceries, medication assistance, and limited utility support
• Must meet income qualifications; call for intake details

Transportation for Veterans

Getting to appointments shouldn’t be the reason you miss care. In Indian River County, several options can help:

Veterans Council Shuttle Program

• Provides scheduled transportation to West Palm Beach, VA, and other regional clinics
• Reservations required at least 48 hours in advance
• Call (772) 226‑1695 to reserve a seat

DAV Transportation Network

• Volunteer drivers available for medical appointments
• Contact the Vero Beach VA Clinic for referral options

If you’re a veteran without reliable transportation, these resources can help you coordinate rides or connect you to fuel assistance when needed.

Housing Assistance and Long-Term Care

Veterans Council of Indian River County

• Offers emergency rent assistance, housing navigation, and utility support
• Helps place veterans in safe housing, temporary shelter, or transitional programs
• It also connects to employment, counseling, and legal aid partners

Emory L. Bennett State Veterans’ Nursing Home

• Location: 1920 Mason Ave, Daytona Beach, FL
• Skilled nursing facility for Florida veterans with honorable discharge
• Call (386) 274‑3460 for application and eligibility info

Veterans facing homelessness or at risk of eviction should reach out early. Housing assistance is available, but slots fill fast.

You’ve seen what’s available, now it’s time to take the next step. Whether you’re ready to reach out today or just need time to explore your options, the resources listed here are a reliable place to start.

Key Services Summary Table

Barriers to Support for Indian River County Veterans

Veterans in Indian River County face a unique combination of rural isolation, rising housing costs, and limited public transportation. Common struggles include:

• Difficulty finding or keeping affordable housing
• PTSD, depression, or anxiety without accessible treatment
• Long travel distances to reach VA medical services
• Limited food access, especially in underserved neighborhoods
• Delays or confusion with VA benefit applications or appeals

These issues don’t happen in isolation. For many, it’s a combination of struggles, housing instability, plus untreated trauma or a medical need compounded by transportation challenges that lead to feeling stuck, frustrated, or invisible.

Without the right support system, it’s easy for veterans to fall through the cracks.

You’ve Carried Enough

If you’re a veteran living in Indian River County and you’re tired of hitting dead ends or not knowing who to trust, you’re in the right place. Whether you’re looking for healthcare, stable housing, food support, or simply someone who understands what you’re going through, the resources here are a real starting point.

You’ve already taken the most important step by seeking support. Now, let this guide help you move forward.