Messages from Congresswoman Hayes

Dear Friend,

Veterans Day is a chance to honor and thank the brave men and women who have put their lives on the line to serve and protect our country.

While today we commemorate the sacrifices made by our veterans, we must recognize there is still work to be done.

The facts are sobering: 

• Veterans overall are 1.5x more likely than their civilian counterparts to take their own life, and female veterans are 2.2x more likely than their female civilian counterparts to take their own life. 
• On a single night, 37,800 veterans experience homelessness - over 23,000 live on the street.
• Between 11%-15% of veterans experience Post Traumatic Stress Disorder - 20% of those also have a Substance Use Disorder (SUD).

In Congress, I am leading efforts to ensure our veterans have the services and support needed to have healthy, productive lives. I have cosponsored legislation to reduce veteran unemployment and homelessness, increase veteran pensions, and to ensure female veterans have access to necessary health services through the Department of Veterans Affairs.

If you are a veteran, or if you know any veterans who need assistance accessing benefits, receiving awards, or dealing with the Department of Veterans Affairs, please contact my district office at (860) 223-8412. Our Veterans Liaison is dedicated to serving the the Fifth District and will be able to assist you. 

To all the veterans in my district: thank you for your service. I am honored to represent you in Congress.