Martha's Vineyard Community Services

"Our debt to the heroic men and valiant women in the service of our country can never be repaid. They have earned our undying gratitude. America will never forget their sacrifices."

- President Harry Truman

When military members leave service and return home, they may face many challenges. One of the greatest, and most immediate challenges, for many veterans, is the loss of camaraderie and sense of community that comes from being part of a military unit. This sense of brotherhood and sisterhood which provided support, feedback, and assistance does not follow all veterans into life after military service. This leaves some veterans to face other challenges – physical and mental health, housing, job placement, relationships, benefits, and others – on their own. And the results of that solo mission are often difficult, and sometimes tragic.

 Without the consistent support of a community of sisters and brothers to guide them to other help, the challenges for some veterans become chronic issues that impact their daily lives. These chronic issues can lead to debilitating and life-threatening situations for men and women who dedicated themselves to our nation’s defense. However, their post-service journey does not have to be a solo one. It is possible to provide a new “unit” of brothers and sisters for local veterans who face challenges following their military service. This is the mission of the Bellevue Veterans Community on Martha’s Vineyard.

 In Dukes County, Martha’s Vineyard Veterans comprise almost 7% of the County’ s population, or about 1,000 men and women. Approximately 30% (300) veterans are under 65 years old, and 39% (350) are disabled. Currently, at least 25 Martha’s Vineyard veterans are identified as in dire need of housing and supportive services.

The goals of the Bellevue Veterans Community:

• Create affordable & supportive housing to give island veterans an opportunity to live more productive lives and continue their mission to serve their community.
• Provide ongoing individualized casework to establish and support veteran goal achievement, including access to veteran benefits.
• Foster a community where the camaraderie of military service and peer support may enable each veteran to thrive and flourish.