8 verified resources.
About Veterans for Fathers
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.
8 Resources
1. VA Montana Health Care System — Free
Full-service VA health care system headquartered at Fort Harrison near Helena, with community-based clinics across Montana serving enrolled veterans. Fathers who served can enroll online, by phone, or in person at any location; once enrolled they can access primary care, mental health, specialty care, prescriptions, and telehealth. Bring a DD-214 and photo ID to the first visit. Most care is at no cost for eligible vets.
406-447-7500 · 3687 Veterans Dr, Fort Harrison, MT 59636 · Mon-Fri 7:30am-4:30pm · Visit Website
2. Veterans Crisis Line – Montana — Free
Free, confidential 24/7 crisis support for veterans, service members, National Guard, Reserves, and their families. Dial 988 and press 1, text 838255, or chat at veteranscrisisline.net to reach a responder — many of whom are veterans themselves. Fathers in acute distress can get immediate support, a warm handoff to local VA Montana care, and follow-up calls. Enrollment in VA healthcare is not required to use the line.
988 (press 1) · 24/7 · Visit Website
3. Montana Veterans Home – Columbia Falls — Paid
State-run long-term skilled nursing facility in Columbia Falls providing residential care to Montana veterans, and in some cases their spouses, who need 24/7 nursing support. Fathers or family members can request an admission packet outlining eligibility (honorable service, Montana residency, need for skilled care). Costs are offset by VA per-diem and income-based resident fees. Wait-list timing varies by bed availability.
406-892-3256 · 400 Veterans Dr, Columbia Falls, MT 59912 · 24/7 residential · Visit Website
4. American Legion – Montana Department — Free
Statewide American Legion organization representing wartime veterans in Montana, with posts in nearly every town. Accredited service officers help fathers file VA disability claims, appeals, and dependency & indemnity compensation (DIC) paperwork at no cost. The Legion also runs scholarships, youth programs like Boys State, and community service events. Call the Helena office to find your closest post and service officer.
406-324-3989 · Helena, MT 59601 · Mon-Fri 8:30am-4:30pm · Visit Website
5. DAV Montana — Free
Disabled American Veterans' Montana department, based at Fort Harrison, provides free VA benefits counseling, claims assistance, transportation to VA appointments, and peer support to veterans with service-connected injuries or illnesses. Dads can schedule a meeting with a national service officer to file initial claims, appeals, and increase requests. DAV also advocates at the state and federal level for disabled vets.
406-447-7500 · Fort Harrison, MT 59636 · Mon-Fri 8am-4pm
6. VFW Montana — Free
Veterans of Foreign Wars of Montana operates local posts across the state serving veterans of overseas and combat service. Accredited VFW service officers help fathers file VA disability claims, pension applications, and education benefits at no cost. Posts also host community dinners, scholarship programs, and youth activities. Use the VFW post finder to locate the nearest post and service officer in your area.
406-324-3989 · Varies by post · Visit Website
7. Montana SSVF – Veterans Housing — Free
VA's Supportive Services for Veteran Families program in Montana works with local nonprofits to prevent and end homelessness among veteran families through case management, rental assistance, utility help, transportation, and job navigation. Fathers who served and are at risk of losing housing — or already homeless — can call Fort Harrison to get connected to the nearest SSVF grantee. Services are free to eligible veteran families.
406-447-7500 · Fort Harrison, MT 59636 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website
8. Montana Vet Center – Billings — Free
VA Vet Center in Billings providing free, confidential readjustment counseling to combat veterans, survivors of military sexual trauma, and their families. Fathers can get individual, couples, group, and bereavement counseling without needing to be enrolled in VA healthcare. Services include PTSD counseling, anger management, and community referrals. Call to schedule a first appointment; walk-ins are welcome when counselors are available.
406-657-6071 · 2795 Enterprise Ave, Billings, MT 59102 · Mon-Fri 8am-6pm · Visit Website