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.

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.

Veterans in Virginia

15 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.

Veterans in Virginia

Virginia has Juvenile and Domestic Relations Courts handling custody, visitation, and child support (for unmarried parents and modifications), plus Circuit Courts handling divorce. The Division of Child Support Enforcement operates under DSS. Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Norfolk, Richmond, Arlington, and Alexandria are the largest cities. Central Virginia Legal Aid, Legal Aid Society of Eastern Virginia, and other regional LSC programs cover the state.

15 Resources

1. Virginia Department of Veterans Services — Free

State agency providing benefits assistance, employment services, and care facilities for Virginia's nearly 700,000 veterans and their families. DVS operates benefits offices, veteran care centers, and the V3 employer certification program. Call or visit to get help filing VA disability claims, accessing education benefits, or finding employment. Regional offices are located across Virginia. Services are free to Virginia veterans and their family members including surviving spouses.

804-786-0286 · 101 N 14th St, 17th Floor, Richmond, VA 23219 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

2. Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center (Richmond) — Free

Full-service VA medical center providing comprehensive primary care, mental health services, surgery, and specialty care to veterans in central Virginia. Located in Richmond on Broad Rock Boulevard with a 24/7 emergency department. Outpatient clinics and community-based outpatient clinics serve veterans across the region. Enroll online at va.gov or call to establish care. No out-of-pocket cost for most eligible veterans. PTSD, addiction, and homeless veteran services are available.

804-675-5000 · 1201 Broad Rock Blvd, Richmond, VA 23249 · 24/7 emergency; outpatient Mon-Fri 8am-4:30pm · Visit Website

3. Salem VA Medical Center — Free

VA healthcare facility serving veterans in western Virginia with inpatient medical care, outpatient clinics, and comprehensive mental health services including PTSD treatment and substance abuse recovery. Located in Salem near Roanoke with a 24/7 emergency department. Community-based outpatient clinics extend services across the region. Enroll online at va.gov or call to establish care. Services are available to eligible veterans with priority care for those with service-connected disabilities.

540-982-2463 · 1970 Roanoke Blvd, Salem, VA 24153 · 24/7 emergency; outpatient Mon-Fri 8am-4:30pm · Visit Website

4. Hampton VA Medical Center — Free

One of the oldest VA medical centers in the nation, providing comprehensive primary care, mental health, surgery, and specialty healthcare services to veterans throughout the Hampton Roads region. Located in Hampton with a 24/7 emergency department. Community-based outpatient clinics extend services across the peninsula and surrounding area. Enroll at va.gov or call to begin care. PTSD, TBI, and veteran-specific mental health programs are available on campus.

757-722-9961 · 100 Emancipation Dr, Hampton, VA 23667 · 24/7 emergency; outpatient Mon-Fri 8am-4:30pm · Visit Website

5. Virginia Values Veterans (V3) Program — Free

State-sponsored program helping Virginia employers recruit, hire, and retain veterans through training, tools, and employer certification. Over 2,000 Virginia employers are V3-certified, committing to veteran-friendly hiring practices. Job seekers can search V3-certified employers when job hunting. Employers can apply for certification through DVS. The program is free for both employers and veterans. Contact DVS to learn about current certified employers and available veteran employment resources.

804-786-0286 · 101 N 14th St, 17th Floor, Richmond, VA 23219 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

6. Fairfax County Veterans Services — Free

County office assisting Northern Virginia veterans with VA disability claims, pension applications, healthcare enrollment, and connections to federal and state resources. Services are free to Fairfax County veterans and their families. Accredited VA claims agents on staff can assist with complex disability claims and appeals. Call during business hours to schedule an appointment. Located at the Government Center in Fairfax and open Monday through Friday.

703-324-5510 · 12011 Government Center Pkwy, Suite 1060, Fairfax, VA 22035 · Mon-Fri 8am-4:30pm · Visit Website

7. Virginia Veteran and Family Support (VVFS) — Free

DVS program providing free counseling, peer mentoring, and family support for Virginia veterans and their families transitioning from military to civilian life. VVFS coordinators are located regionally across Virginia and can connect veterans to mental health counseling, financial guidance, employment resources, and peer support groups. Services are free and confidential. Contact DVS or email VVFS@dvs.virginia.gov to connect with a regional coordinator near you.

804-371-8983 · Services statewide through regional coordinators · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

8. Veterans Crisis Line — Free

Dial 988 then press 1 for free, confidential 24/7 crisis support specifically for veterans, active service members, and their families. You can also text 838255 or chat online at veteranscrisisline.net. All responders are trained specifically in veteran issues and military culture. No VA enrollment required. If you are in immediate danger, call 911 as well. This line is available to all Virginia veterans and family members at any time of day or night.

988 (press 1) · National (serves all Virginia veterans) · 24/7 · Visit Website

9. Virginia DVS Regional Benefits Offices — Free

Regional offices across Virginia helping veterans file VA disability claims, access education and vocational benefits, and navigate VA healthcare enrollment. DVS benefits counselors are accredited by the VA and provide free assistance at offices in Richmond, Fairfax, Roanoke, Hampton, and other locations statewide. Call or visit to schedule an appointment. Bring your DD-214, medical records, and any prior VA correspondence to your appointment for the most efficient service.

804-786-0286 · Offices in Richmond, Fairfax, Roanoke, Hampton statewide · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm (by appointment) · Visit Website

10. American Legion – Virginia — Free

Over 300 American Legion posts across Virginia providing free VA benefits claims assistance, family support programs, and community service activities. Accredited service officers at many posts can help file and appeal VA disability claims at no cost. Posts also offer scholarships, youth programs, and a social community for veterans. Contact the Virginia Department headquarters or find your nearest post on the American Legion website to connect with local services.

804-353-6606 · 1708 Commonwealth Ave, Richmond, VA 23230 · Mon-Fri 8am-4pm · Visit Website

11. VFW – Virginia — Free

Veterans of Foreign Wars posts across Virginia providing camaraderie, free VA claims assistance, emergency grants, and advocacy for veterans and their families. VFW service officers can help with disability claims, VA appeals, and survivor benefits at no charge. VFW Unmet Needs grants provide short-term financial assistance for veterans in crisis. Find your nearest Virginia VFW post through the state department website or by calling the state headquarters.

804-340-0670 · 5501 Staples Mill Rd, Richmond, VA 23228 · Varies by post · Visit Website

12. DAV – Virginia — Free

Disabled American Veterans providing free VA claims assistance, transportation to VA medical appointments, and benefits counseling for Virginia veterans with service-connected disabilities. DAV national service officers and volunteer service officers help file disability claims, appeals, and upgrade requests. The DAV Transportation Network provides free rides to VA medical centers. Find a Virginia chapter or call 877-426-2838 to connect with claims assistance and local services.

877-426-2838 · Multiple VA chapters · Mon-Fri 8am-4:30pm · Visit Website

13. VA DC Medical Center – Serves Northern VA — Paid

VA medical center in Washington DC serving many Northern Virginia veterans with primary care, specialty care, mental health, and surgical services. The 24/7 emergency room is available to enrolled veterans. Northern Virginia veterans without a local VA facility often use this center for specialty referrals. Enroll at va.gov or call to establish care. Metro accessible via the Red Line to Brookland-CUA station. Bring your DD-214 and insurance cards to enrollment appointments.

202-745-8000 · 50 Irving St NW, Washington, DC 20422 · 24/7 ER · Visit Website

14. VA National Call Center for Homeless Veterans — Free

24/7 hotline connecting homeless veterans to emergency shelter, transitional housing, and VA supportive services across Virginia. Call 877-424-3838 any time to speak with a specialist who can connect you to local VA homeless veteran programs including HUD-VASH vouchers, SSVF rapid rehousing, and Grant and Per Diem residential programs. This free line serves all veterans, including those not yet enrolled in VA healthcare. Immediate assistance available day or night.

877-424-3838 · 24/7/365 · Visit Website

15. Virginia War Memorial – Veterans Services — Free

State memorial honoring Virginia's men and women who served in the armed forces and connecting veterans to benefits information and community services. The memorial hosts educational programs, traveling exhibitions, and veterans events throughout the year. Staff can provide referrals to DVS benefits counselors and veterans service organizations. Located on South Belvidere Street in Richmond and open most days. A meaningful destination for veterans and their families visiting the Richmond area.

804-786-2060 · 621 S Belvidere St, Richmond, VA 23220 · Mon-Sat 9am-4pm · Visit Website

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.