A place of support for veterans and Gold Star families

WVCB, NEEDHAM, Mass. — In 2010, a group of combat veterans, Gold Star families, and first responders formed Massachusetts Fallen Heroes, a nonprofit group committed to memorializing post-9/11 veterans who did not return home. The nonprofit group’s fundraising events help support these Gold Star families. The funds also support the Innovets program – designed to help veterans develop their own business ventures and get feedback from other professionals.

Erica D’Agostino of the Arthritis Foundation says members of the military are disproportionately affected by arthritis: “On average, the general population’s onset of arthritis is the age of 48, where the military community that onset can be in the early 30s and sometimes in the early 20s.” She tells us that the Arthritis Foundation has resources that can help with the pain and get veterans the support they’ve earned.

Learn more about the Massachusetts Fallen Heroes Fundraising.

There are many organizations that support veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, mild cognitive impairment due to traumatic brain injury, substance use disorders and related conditions. The veterans and families we spoke with say that the Veterans Administration is a good place to start.

If you or a family member is in crisis or facing an emergency, go to the nearest emergency room or call the Veterans Crisis Line at 1-800-273-8255.