New York's Department of Veterans' Services will hold a free online discussion Oct. 14 about the experiences of Hispanic and Latino veterans, service members and military families. The program is open to the public from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Eastern time.
The agency announced the Hispanic Heritage Month Virtual Chat & Chew in a Sept. 28 release. The conversation will focus on current challenges and opportunities for military-connected families, along with the benefits, resources and support available to them. Participants can register for the virtual event through the state's Webex meeting site.
The theme is “Nuestra Herencia, Nuestro Presente, Nuestro Futuro,” or “Our Heritage, Our Present, Our Future.” The department said participants will discuss identity, culture, service and resilience while looking at the present-day needs of Hispanic and Latino military-connected communities. The release did not list a fee or limit participation to veterans.
Conversation and state services
Lessie Branch, the department's special assistant for community engagement and a Navy veteran, will moderate the discussion. Branch said the program is meant to give veterans, service members and families space to describe what they are experiencing now, while honoring earlier generations.
Commissioner Viviana DeCohen said listening to veterans and families can help connect them with the services available to them. The agency says the event will include personal stories and community perspectives, as well as information about benefits and support offered by the department and its partners.
The Department of Veterans' Services connects New York veterans, service members and families with benefits and assistance. People seeking help outside the event can call 888-838-7697 or visit veterans.ny.gov to arrange an in-person or virtual meeting with an accredited veterans benefits adviser.
The Oct. 14 event is virtual and free to attend. Registration is available online.
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