Women Veterans Network

August 2024 Newsletter

In the News

Summer greetings to you! A few weeks ago, I had the privilege of visiting The Wall That Heals and was able to stencil the names of all eight military nurses that died in service in Vietnam. Walking along the wall is always overwhelming for me when I see all the names of those that have passed. I also reflect on veterans who developed health complications from chemical exposures and suffered from other mental and physical health challenges over the years. With the PACT Act and the recent signing of the HERO Act, I see possible improvements to the lives of veterans and their families. Still, I know that more can always be done.


Please reach out to the Women Veterans Network if you need connections to resources and services. We are here for you and appreciate your feedback on what you need!

Jessica Frost

Director, Women Veterans Network

Amid a packed hall in Lexington, Governor Healey recently signed the HERO Act. The law enhances benefits, modernizes services, and elevates how we honor our veterans. Learn more about the HERO Act and what it means for veterans living in Massachusetts.

Veterans Homes Receive Historic Funding


On July 29, Governor Maura Healey signed the FY25 state budget, which included historic levels of funding for the Massachusetts Veterans Homes at Holyoke and Chelsea. The FY25 budget allocates $87.4 million to fund the Homes' healthcare and supportive services, including long-term care and independent living facilities, mental health and rehabilitation services, recreational activities, dog therapy, and more. For more information about the Massachusetts Veterans Homes at Holyoke and Chelsea, please visit Mass.gov/vets

A resident of the Veterans Home at Holyoke overlooks construction on the new facility, due to be completed by late 2026.

Upcoming Military Observances


Aug. 14: Navajo Code Talkers Day


Aug. 16: National Airborne Day


Aug. 29: Marine Corps Reserve Birthday 


Sept.: National Suicide Prevention Month



Sept.: National Service Dog Month


Sept. 2: V-J Day (Victory over Japan)

EOVS & WVN-Sponsored Events

Other Veteran Events

Veteran Hiring Events, Career Workshops & Trainings

Federal, State & Nonprofit Resources

MA Veteran Benefits

MA Veteran Programs

Find Your Local VSO

The Veterans Equality Review Board (VERB) provides an application process for certain veterans discharged under the 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' (DADT) policy, and recommend their eligibility for state-based veteran benefits. If you think you qualify, or know someone who might, please visit the website for more information.

Veteran Transition Toolkit


This 54-page Transition Toolkit will guide veterans through all of Massachusetts’ programs, services and benefits, whether you’re newly discharged and transitioning to civilian life in Massachusetts or a longtime veteran looking for a list of all of the resources available to you. Sections highlight everything from housing and healthcare to education and employment.


About the Women Veterans Network

Established in 1997, the Women Veterans Network (WVN) is a program within the Commonwealth of Massachusetts' Executive Office of Veterans Services. The WVN seeks to serve as a primary resource for Massachusetts' military veterans, with a mission of increasing awareness of the federal, state and local benefits available to them. As part of its outreach mission, the WVM hosts a variety of events every year, including webinars, gatherings, the Women Veterans Appreciation Day, and an annual conference.

Make Your Voice Heard


Your opinions matter! We value your feedback, suggestions, and ideas for enhancing the WVN experience. Let us know how we can better serve Massachusetts' women veterans by emailing the EOVSWomenVets@mass.gov.

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