Executive Office of Veterans Services (EOVS)

In 2024, Secretary Santiago, Deputy Secretary Gayle-Bennett, and the EOVS engagement team attended over 300 events/ meetings across Massachusetts. Building connections with our partners and community is at the heart of what we do, and we’re excited to continue this record-setting engagement next year! #EOVS2024

This year, alongside our friends at The Massachusetts Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development (EOLWD), we delivered a $2,500 tax credit to empower small businesses to hire veterans—opening doors for veterans on SNAP, the chronically unemployed, and service-connected disabled veterans. Together, we’re building stronger communities and brighter futures for those who served. #EOVS2024

In 2024, EOVS made mental health and suicide prevention a top priority. We launched innovative initiatives, secured critical funding, and built strong collaborations to ensure every veteran in Massachusetts has access to life-saving support. We distributed $1.8 million to 15 local organizations addressing mental health and suicide prevention, strengthening grassroots support for veterans across the state. This summer, we visited one of our recipients, The Wet Vet, to see firsthand how they are making a difference for veterans in our community. #EOVS2024

We strengthened our partnership with VA Healthcare, breaking barriers to connect more veterans with the benefits, resources, and support they deserve through initiatives like the first-ever New England VA 1-on-1 Veterans Assistance Expo, which set national attendance records. Over 5,000 more Massachusetts veterans are receiving VBA benefits this year alone compared to last year. #EOVS2024

EOVS has been proud to partner with the Executive Office of Housing and Liveable Communities in the fight to end veteran homelessness in Massachusetts. Through targeted investments, innovative programs, and close collaboration with community organizations, we’re working to ensure every veteran has a place to call home. #EOVS2024

In partnership with the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities, we launched the largest targeted investment to end veteran homelessness in Massachusetts history. #EOVS2024

This year, we expanded and modernized our programs to better meet the diverse needs of Massachusetts veterans, delivering impactful services in employment, education, mental health, and beyond. #EOVS2024

In 2024, we made transformative strides in revitalizing both Massachusetts Veterans Homes at Holyoke and Chelsea. #EOVS2024 

In addition to getting the HERO Act signed into law, over the past year, we hit the road, visiting every corner of the state and partnering with legislators at town halls to bring the HERO Act directly to you. We’re excited to achieve full implementation in the coming year. #EOVS2024

This year, Governor Healey signed the most comprehensive veterans legislation in state history into law: the HERO Act. Learn more about the HERO Act at https://lnkd.in/ghR55Gfi #EOVS2024