Free, confidential 24/7 crisis support for veterans, active service members, National Guard, Reservists, and their families. Dial 988 then press 1, text 838255, or chat online at veteranscrisisline.net. No VA enrollment required to call. Responders are specially trained in military culture and veteran-specific mental health issues. A lifeline for veterans in crisis — do not hesitate to call.
Veteran fathers have access to a parallel system of benefits and services through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Healthcare is provided through VA medical centers and community-based outpatient clinics; mental health services including PTSD, depression, and family therapy are covered. The VA Crisis Line (dial 988, press 1) is staffed 24/7 by veterans for veterans. Disability compensation, GI Bill education benefits, VA home loans, and vocational rehabilitation are administered through regional VA offices. State-level Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs) — the American Legion, VFW, DAV, and state VSO offices — help veterans file benefit claims for free. For family law matters, the VA doesn't provide attorneys, but many state bar associations have veteran legal clinics. This directory includes the VA Crisis Line, regional VA centers, state VSOs, and veteran-specific legal and housing services.
Veterans in California
California handles custody in superior courts across all 58 counties. The Department of Child Support Services runs enforcement through local child support agencies (LCSAs) in every county. Los Angeles County operates the largest family court system in the US. Major metros include LA, San Diego, San Jose, San Francisco, Fresno, and Sacramento. LA County's LAFLA, Bay Area Legal Aid, and Legal Aid Society of San Diego are the largest legal aid programs.
VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System — One of the largest VA healthcare systems in the nation serving veterans across LA, Ventura, and Santa Barbara counties. West Los Angeles cam
San Francisco VA Health Care System — Full-service VA medical center serving Bay Area veterans with comprehensive medical, surgical, mental health, and specialty care. Multiple c
VA San Diego Healthcare System — Large VA medical center serving veterans throughout San Diego and Imperial counties. Offers medical, surgical, mental health, PTSD treatment
VA Sacramento — Northern California HCS — VA Northern California Health Care System serving veterans in Sacramento and 26 surrounding counties. Main hospital in Mather, CA with commu
VA Vet Centers — California — Community-based readjustment counseling for combat veterans and military sexual trauma survivors. Free individual and group counseling, empl
Veterans — Common Questions
What do I do in a crisis?
Dial 988 and press 1 for the Veterans Crisis Line. Text 838255. Chat at veteranscrisisline.net. Staffed 24/7 by veterans. Also visit any VA emergency department — you'll be seen regardless of enrollment status.
I'm not enrolled with the VA — can I still get help?
Yes. Visit any VA medical center to enroll. Most veterans with an honorable or general discharge qualify for free or low-cost care. Combat veterans within 10 years of separation get enhanced eligibility. Bring your DD-214.
Can the VA help with custody cases?
The VA doesn't provide attorneys for family law, but many state bar associations run free Veteran Legal Clinics. The VA Caregiver Support Program and Vet Centers provide counseling, and Veteran Treatment Courts exist in many jurisdictions for justice-involved vets.
What does a VSO do?
A Veterans Service Organization (American Legion, VFW, DAV, state VSO) helps veterans file disability compensation claims, pension claims, and appeals for free. They're accredited by the VA and often get better outcomes than self-filed claims. Always use a VSO before paying for a claims agent.