Easterseals, Maine, based in Portland, in collaboration with Maine DHHS Office of Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services and the Maine Bureau of Veteran Services, has announced the launch of the Community Integration Service for Maine veterans, according to a news release from Veterans Count Maine.

As of April 16, resources are available to all veterans throughout the state regardless of their time, duty or status. Previously, time served and status could prevent veterans from accessing certain types of services.

This program will serve all veterans who have served in the United States Armed Forces to include National Guard and Reserves, regardless of Active Duty time and discharge status. For enrollment a DD Form 214, NGB Form 22 or Military unit verification for non-discharged members will be needed, according to the release.

“The Community Integration Service for Maine veterans is really exciting news for our program,” said Jeremy Kendall, director of Military and Veterans Services at Easterseals Maine, according to the release. “There are less restrictions, which opens us up to provide care coordination for veterans who may have served in the Armed Forces under traditional National Guard or Reserve status and were never federally activated, served for less than 90 days, or discharged under conditions that are other than honorable. All of which are criteria for many veteran support programs may now receive the help and support they deserve. This program will really expand our outreach and services to Maine veterans in the state of Maine.”

Through a detailed intake and assessment process the care coordination team will assist the veteran to identify the barriers and social determinants that are hindering them from their personal growth and overall success. These can be, but not limited to, mental health and substance use/abuse treatment navigation, VA enrollment, financial challenges, pro-social inclusion, employment and housing instability, according to the release.

Should you work with or know a veteran in need, please make the referral to Easterseals Maine’s Central Intake at 828-0754 ext 1004. MaineCare insurance is accepted but not required.

Additionally, Easterseals Maine continues to serve Maine’s homeless veteran community through the Homeless Veteran Reintegration Program. If you know of, or are working with a homeless or housing instable veteran who would like to be gainfully employed, please refer them to us for help, assistance and guidance.