You can call, text, or chat the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for free, live support if you or anyone you know is having thoughts of suicide or any other kind of mental or emotional distress. The Lifeline has been around since 2005 at (800) 273-8255 (TALK), and you can still reach it any time at that number.

To get a copy of your DD214, you can request it from the National Archives (.gov) online using their eVetRecs system or by filling out Standard Form 180 (SF-180) and submitting it by mail or fax. You can also use milConnect, a Department of Defense website, to access your records.

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

1. Through the National Archives:

• Online: Use the eVetRecs system on the National Archives website.
• Mail/Fax: Fill out Standard Form 180 (SF-180), Request Pertaining to Military Records, and mail or fax it to the address provided on the form.

2. Through milConnect:

• Log in to milConnect (mil).
• Navigate to the section for requesting your personnel records.
• Follow the instructions to submit your request.

3. Through the VA (for veterans):

• Visit the VA eBenefits portal.
• Access your documents and records section.
• You may be able to view and print your DD214 from here.

Important Notes:

• Some companies offer to help you obtain DD214s, but the National Archives (.gov) provides this service for free.
• For records older than 62 years, you may be charged a fee based on the public fee schedule.
• The VA has started digitizing records, but older records may still be in analog format.

To get VA health care, you can apply online at the VA website, by phone at 877-222-8387 (press 1), or by visiting a VA Medical Center. You'll need to complete the Enrollment Application for Health Benefits (VA Form 10-10EZ).

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

1. Apply Online:

• Visit the VA website and complete the online application (VA Form 10-10EZ).
• You'll need Social Security numbers for you, your spouse, and any dependents, as well as information about your insurance coverage and military service history.
• You have 60 days to finish the application once you start.

2. Apply by Phone:

• Call 877-222-8387 (press 1) to speak with someone who can help you with the application process.

3. Apply in Person:

• Visit a VA Medical Center or a VA regional office for assistance with the application.
• The VA can also assist you with completing the application form.

4. Mail the Application:

• You can print the VA Form 10-10EZ from the VA website, complete it, and mail it to the Health Eligibility Center.

5. Required Information:

• Social Security Numbers:.Opens in new tabFor you, your spouse (if applicable), and any dependents.
• Insurance Information:.Opens in new tabFor all health insurance companies that cover you, including Medicare, private insurance, or employer-provided coverage.
• Military Service History:.Opens in new tabDD214 or other separation documents, military service information, and details about any service-connected disabilities or exposure to toxins.
• Income and Deductible Information:.Opens in new tabYou may need to provide information about your household income and deductible expenses for the previous year if your eligibility isn't determined based on other factors.

6. After You Apply:

• The VA will send you written notification of your enrollment status.
• You can schedule a doctor's appointment when you apply or during your "Welcome to My VA" call.

We strongly encourage you to contact the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at (877) 4AID-VET (877-424-3838) for assistance.

The purpose of the program is to provide an initial point of contact in each municipality for Veterans seeking assistance.

The official website for Connecticut Foodshare is ctfoodshare.org. You can also find resources and information on their website regarding the Mobile Pantry Locator and assistance with SNAP benefits.