The New York State Department of Veterans’ Services has launched a statewide survey aimed at capturing the voices of women veterans to shape future policies and programs in areas like healthcare, mental health, employment, and education.
The brief and confidential survey, available at https://forms.office.com/g/firLyyAz09, takes less than two minutes to complete and will remain open through the end of the year.
“We are committed to listening to women who served – and ensuring their voices lead the way,” said Commissioner Viviana M. DeCohen. “Their experiences matter and this survey will help us better align our services with their important needs.”
The initiative is being conducted in partnership with the New York State Women Veterans Advisory Committee, which works with DVS to address the specific needs of women who served in the military. Committee Chairwoman Dr. Nneka Bell called the survey “a chance to be understood,” adding that the insights gained “will drive real, responsive change across New York State.”
Executive Deputy Commissioner Joel Evans said every response “moves us one step closer to building stronger, more equitable systems of care for our Women Veterans and their families.”
Women Veterans Coordinator Ozias “Rosiey” Batista described the effort as a “powerful tool for change,” encouraging all women veterans across the state to participate. “This survey is helping us center their lived experiences and turn feedback into forward movement,” Batista said.
Dr. Lessie Branch, DVS Special Assistant for Community Engagement, added: “This is not just data collection – this is dignity in action.”
The Department of Veterans’ Services continues to provide support to all veterans, service members, and their families through benefits advisement and connections to services. Appointments can be made at veterans.ny.gov.
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