|
 September is National Suicide Prevention Month, and within the VA community, that means something specific. Veterans face unique pressures - the transition out of service, physical and invisible wounds, isolation from a culture that once gave structure and purpose to every day. Veterans die by suicide at a significantly higher rate than the general population, and the risk doesn't announce itself. It hides behind "I'm fine," behind missed calls that go unreturned, behind the friend who used to text every week and suddenly goes quiet.
Checking in isn't complicated, but it does take intention.
It looks like:
- Reaching out even when you don't have a specific reason to
- Asking directly — "Are you thinking about suicide?” because direct questions don't plant the idea, they open the door
- Listening without rushing to fix, minimize, or compare
- Following up again in a week, not just once
- Knowing that showing up imperfectly beats staying silent
 |
|
Sunset: A Veteran was on the verge of losing his battle with PTSD. Then, the VA called to schedule some bloodwork. Thanks to the empathy and quick thinking of the employee who called, the Veteran was able to get the help he needed. Watch his story on YouTube. |
Everyone has a role to play in suicide prevention. Help us spread the word with the “Don’t Wait. Reach Out.” Campaign.
|
|
 |
|
Getting your flu vaccine is the best way to defend yourself and those around you from the flu. Starting September 21st, walk-in flu clinics open at all our VA locations. No appointment needed - just roll up your sleeve. Check walk-in hours at your closest VA facility, check out the VA Salt Lake City “Flu Shot” information page, or get your flu vaccine during your next primary care visit. |
|
|
 Join VA Salt Lake City Health Care Leadership and Veterans Benefits Regional Office Leadership starting at 5 p.m. on September 23.
Ask a question on the phone or type it in while streaming.
We want to hear from you!
5 p.m. – 6 p.m. MT, Wednesday, September 23
Call in to listen: 866-654-9460
Stream Online: https://access.live/vasaltlakecity
 Connecting to same-day shelter, food, housing, substance abuse treatment, and other resources provided to Veterans experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity.
When: 10am - 3pm SEPTEMBER 23, 2026
Where: Sunnyside Park Pavilion
1735 Sunnyside Ave
SLC, UT 84108
(South exit of SLC VA main campus.)
Helpful documents to bring:
(not required)
Vital Documents-
• Valid ID
• Social Security Card
• Birth Certificate
Income Verification:
• Social Security Award Letter
• 3 months of paystubs
• Disability Letter
• Any proof of income
Price VA Clinic Open House and Veteran Resource Fair
When:Tue. Sep 29, 2026, 1:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. MT
|
|
|
|
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Update:
Important Changes to Animal Accommodations (2026)
HUD’s new 2026 policy clarifies that only trained service animals qualify for housing accommodations under the Fair Housing Act. Untrained Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) are no longer recognized for FHA accommodations, meaning ESA letters now have little to no effect | | |
