Veterans in Crisis helping record number of northern Michigan veterans
September 09, 2020
The COVID-19 pandemic has created more than just a public health crisis in the United States. As unemployment numbers rise, many Americans are now facing dire financial situations. Veterans in Crisis, a veteran aid group in Northern Michigan, has been helping to fill the gaps for veterans who need support through these, particularly trying times.
The veteran-led nonprofit has provided honorably or medically discharged veterans with financial, mental health, job and other support programs since 2017. Its services are more in demand than ever. However, the organization has received a record number of applications in the first half of 2020, as many look for extra help dealing with the dramatic economic consequences of COVID-19.
Veterans in Crisis connects eligible veterans, many of whom do not have a rated service-connected disability but may still face challenges living civilian life after their time in the military, with funds and resources to help them meet their needs. It currently serves 21 counties in Northern Michigan and the Eastern Upper Peninsula from its headquarters in Traverse City.
Veterans in Crisis began as a network of local business owners, professionals and veteran advocates who could provide comprehensive resources for helping area veterans with “unforeseen needs,” organized by Vietnam veteran David Mikowski. In the past, the group has facilitated acts of service, such as building wheelchair ramps on veterans’ homes, as well as providing financial help for veterans who need help covering transportation, medical, housing and other costs and it contributes to many programs that support the day-to-day needs of veterans.
The pandemic forced Veterans in Crisis to cancel and postpone many of its most significant fundraising events, including an annual golf tournament on Flag Day. This left the group facing an increased need for services with fewer opportunities to raise necessary donations.
For more information on what Veterans in Crisis does, visit https://veteransincrisis.org/. To apply for one of their assistance programs, fill out the form found at https://golfingforvets.typeform.com/to/TsA8dC.