By Paige Gurgainers
Making sure veterans have somewhere to turn when life becomes difficult is the mission behind the Webster Parish Veterans Safety Net, a community coalition focused on suicide prevention, access to resources and personal connection.
The organization describes its work as helping veterans find support through a network of community partners, with the goal of ensuring no veteran faces a crisis alone. Its efforts bring together organizations and advocates who can help veterans navigate challenges and connect with available services.
Established in October 2024, the coalition grew from a collaboration between the Overton Brooks VA Medical Center’s suicide prevention community-based intervention team and local organizations. Participants included veterans’ groups, healthcare providers, counseling services, civic organizations and the Webster Parish Council on Aging.
That work includes creating opportunities for veterans to spend time together. Gatherings held in partnership with the Council on Aging have offered meals, fellowship and information about resources. Coalition representatives have also shared information about Coffee with Vets, a gathering at Huffman Manor in Minden where veterans can connect in an informal setting on every first Saturday of the month at 9:30 a.m.
Local law enforcement has participated in the effort as well. The Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office identified Deputy Jeremy Haas, a military veteran who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, as its liaison to the coalition.
Through fellowship, education and partnerships, the coalition is working to make support easier to find and to strengthen the connections between veterans and the community around them.
Veterans, family members and residents interested in learning more about the organization, its outreach or upcoming events can visit the Webster Parish Veterans Safety Net Facebook page.