The El Paso Veterans Affairs Advisory Committee held a meeting on January 17, 2025, where key discussions focused on upcoming events and resources aimed at supporting local veterans. A notable highlight was the announcement of a tele town hall scheduled for 6 PM, inviting all veterans to participate and receive important updates from the director.

In addition, the meeting featured a report on a Whole Health Resource Fair that took place earlier that day, promoting health and wellness initiatives. The fair included activities such as Tai Chi, nutrition workshops, and mindfulness practices, emphasizing the importance of disease prevention and overall well-being for veterans.

Antoinette Hunt, the veteran county service officer, shared personal insights about an upcoming Women's Health Clinic scheduled for March 15. This event coincides with Governor Greg Abbott's declaration of March as Women Veterans Month, aiming to celebrate and address the unique needs of female veterans. Hunt expressed her desire for collaboration between the Veterans Advisory Board and the Veterans Affairs Committee to identify and address gaps in services for veterans.

Another significant topic discussed was the potential for additional education benefits under the GI Bill for veterans who have served in multiple periods. Hunt informed attendees that those eligible could receive an extra 12 months of education benefits, advising them to file for these benefits only when ready to use them to avoid being placed on a timeline.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to share further details about the Women's Health Clinic and the GI Bill benefits with the community, ensuring that veterans have access to vital information and resources. As the committee prepares for future discussions and events, the focus remains on enhancing support for El Paso's veteran population.