Pulaski Times

U.S. Senators John Boozman and Patty Murray have introduced the Helping Heroes Act, a bipartisan bill aimed at enhancing support for families and children of disabled veterans who assume caregiving roles. The legislation is designed to improve access to mental health care and peer support services for children under 18 living with veteran family members.

Senator Boozman emphasized the importance of investing in veteran families, stating, "Investing in the families of our veterans is part of the commitment we have made to those who have served." He highlighted that expanding resources through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) would benefit caregivers, including children, by providing comprehensive tools and networks.

Senator Murray expressed pride in reintroducing this bipartisan effort, noting her personal connection as the daughter of a WWII veteran. She stated, "Veterans and their families have sacrificed so much for our country, and we have a responsibility to make sure the federal government is there for them."

The Helping Heroes Act proposes several measures: establishing a permanent Family Support Program for eligible family members of disabled veterans; appointing coordinators at each Veterans Integrated Services Network (VISN) to assess needs and refer families to resources; and requiring the VA to collect data on disabled veteran families' experiences.

The bill has garnered cosponsorship from Senators Richard Blumenthal, Lisa Murkowski, Bernie Sanders, Cory Booker, Adam Schiff, Dick Durbin, Tim Kaine, and Peter Welch. It is supported by organizations such as the Elizabeth Dole Foundation and various veterans' groups.

Further details on supporting military and veteran caregiving homes can be found in a report commissioned by the Elizabeth Dole Foundation.