RGV Has New Network to Help Veterans

by Tony Vindell/LFN

A new network to help veterans has been formed in the Rio Grande Valley and those serving their country are urged to seek the services it provides.

The community-based organization is called TXServes RGV and it’s based at the two Tropical Texas Behavioral Health centers in Weslaco and in Harlingen.

Veterans and family members needing assistance with housing, jobs, relocation, suicide prevention, health issues and other necessities impacting their lives are eligible to use TXServes services.

Ilario G. Pantano, a senior director for community service with Syracuse University, said the brand new network is found today in more than 17 communities nationwide.

“Any veteran or a family member can have access to the network via telephone or on the Internet,” he said. “There is always a need in a community for someone who can help those needing access navigate into a system and this is what TXServes is all about.”

Pantano said the new network was created with a $1.2 million grant given by Valley Baptist Legacy Foundation for the implementation of a two-year pilot program.

Hilda Garcia, director with TTBH, said they are extremely glad for being part of the network.

”We are excited to be able to expand our services,” she said. “This will allow us to refer a veteran or a family member to seek the services they need.”

The network is a partnership of about a dozen organizations including VIDA, Loaves & Fishes, the US Small Business Administration,

Palmer Drug Abuse Program, Texas Southmost College and the University of Texas RGV, South Texas College, Willacy County, Green Path Financial Wellness, Heroes on the Water, among others.

Network members held their first meeting on Tuesday, July 23 at TTBH in Weslaco.

The network’s two centers are located at 1901 S. S. 24th St. in Edinburg and at 1242 N. 77 Sunshine Strip in Harlingen.

For more information please call 1-833-938-1014 or to go AmericaServes.org.