CENTRE COUNTY — When a veteran needs help, the hardest part is often knowing where to turn when it is needed. That’s where the Centre County Veterans Coalition steps in, pulling together providers, advocates and community organizations to make sure veterans and their families aren’t left bouncing from one agency to another.
The coalition, launched in September 2024, meets quarterly at the State College YMCA. The idea is simple: get the right people in the same room to share information and build connections.
“We’re not a one-stop shop for benefits,” said Samantha Cossman, representative from the Centre County Veteran Coalition. “But by networking, we can point veterans to the right door faster.”
Attendance at the meetings ranges from 25 to 35 people. Participants include the Centre County Veterans Affairs office, the Altoona VA Medical Center, county agencies such as Drug and Alcohol and Adult Services, state and federal offices, nonprofits and select for-profit treatment providers. Each session features announcements, spotlight presentations and updates tied to timely observances. For example, September’s meeting included suicide prevention programming and recovery resources in recognition of Suicide Prevention Awareness Month.
Cossman said the coalition helps break down barriers between agencies that often operate separately because of how funding is structured.
“What we’re really doing is building bridges,” she said. “If a veteran makes the wrong call at first, we want to make sure the second call gets them to the right place.”
While the coalition focuses on providers, Cossman offered advice for veterans themselves. Recording a DD214 discharge document at the county courthouse keeps it safe and makes it easier to obtain certified copies later. She also stressed the importance of using accredited veteran service officers who offer free help with filing claims.
“Veterans never need to pay to apply for benefits,” she said.
Beyond paperwork, the coalition has helped highlight resources veterans might not know exist. Local programs include equine therapy, outdoor retreats, art and music initiatives and even free camps for families. Larger efforts like next year’s regional Honor Flight out of Williamsport will give veterans the chance to visit war memorials in Washington, D.C.
One of the most tangible initiatives is MilitaryShare, a food distribution program launched in January by the YMCA of Centre County and the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank. Held the second Monday of each month at the UEC Theater parking lot, MilitaryShare provides pantry items, produce, dairy and meats to registered veterans, surviving spouses and currently serving Guard or Reserve members.
“We served 148 households last month,” Cossman said. “The need is real, and it’s growing.”
The coalition is open to providers, advocates and veterans who want to get involved. Meetings are free and informal, and a hybrid option allows participation by providers outside Centre County.
“If everyone walks away from a meeting having learned one new thing or met one new person, that’s a success,” Cossman said. “It means the next veteran who asks for help gets a clearer, quicker answer.”
