Lacey City Council has taken significant steps to enhance support for veterans and active-duty service members during its recent meeting. A new initiative has introduced a provider at the Lacey Veterans Service Hub, available twice a week, offering vital educational resources to veterans and their families. This addition aims to improve access to essential services, including job placement assistance through a federally funded vocational rehabilitation program.

The program is designed to support homeless or near-homeless veterans by providing comprehensive resources. These include interview preparation, resume building, and even transportation to job interviews and workplaces. Additionally, the initiative offers food assistance for the first few months of employment, ensuring a smoother transition into the workforce.

The council outlined four key categories for ongoing initiatives: expanding volunteer and provider resources, facilitating the transition from active duty to veteran status, increasing awareness of the hub's services, and strengthening outreach events. Each category encompasses various strategies and partnerships with agencies to broaden the program's impact.

A notable component discussed was the Courage Cares program, tailored specifically for Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM). This program equips leaders with a resource list to effectively respond to crises affecting service members and their families.

These developments reflect Lacey's commitment to supporting its veteran community, providing essential services that address their unique challenges. As the city moves forward, the focus will remain on enhancing these programs and ensuring that veterans receive the assistance they need to thrive.