Stamford center helps veterans feel integrated after leaving the military  

The Stamford Veterans Resource Center located in the Old Town Hall is making a difference to the local veteran’s community.

Carmen Hughes, the director of the veterans center, said their mission is to empower veterans after they leave the military and to give them a sense of direction.

“To connect veterans and their families to all of the resources that are available to them,” said Hughes.

“Personally, it’s like therapy. The wounds of war never go away sometimes,” said Thomas Patterson, a U.S. Army veteran.

The center gives veterans like Patterson purpose.

“Veterans don’t really know what to do when you become a veteran,” said Tom Finn, a U.S. Army veteran.

On Thursday, the team celebrated a year of life-changing and life-saving service.

Before the Stamford Veterans Resource Center opened last year, the nearest one was in West Haven.

Many veterans do not know where to begin once they leave the military.

“This is just a continuation of my service after I retire from my military,” said Finn.

Programs at the Stamford Veterans Resource Center help veterans like Finn and Patterson with medical benefits, classes, mental health and many other resources.

“We deal with veterans who are dealing with mental illness, homelessness, and two incidents where it came to almost a near-death, suicidal, Patterson said. “Our veterans are our most valuable national treasures. To make sure that they get the help they need, helps me.”

Mayor Caroline Simmons declared Feb. 15, 2024, as the Stamford Veterans Resource Center Day.

The Stamford Veterans Resource Center is open every Tuesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Guide: Mental health resources available in the tri-state