Texarkana, Texas – On September 16, the Bowie County Coalition for Heroes organized a Veterans Resource Fair aimed at reducing veteran suicide rates. The event, held in downtown Texarkana as part of Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, brought together dozens of local nonprofits, government agencies and support groups to provide direct assistance to veterans and their families.
Local partners focus on life‑saving services
Coalition spokesperson Greg Beck emphasized that suicide prevention is the organization’s top priority. “They say 22 a day, but that’s government numbers. I guess it’s about double that. Our job is to put ourselves out of a job and end suicide. One is too many,” Beck said.
Fair attendees could collect information on mental‑health counseling, crisis‑intervention hotlines, housing assistance, employment services and other community resources. Representatives from the Texas Veterans Commission, local faith‑based ministries, the Veterans Crisis Line and several veteran‑owned businesses staffed tables and answered questions.
Veterans share personal stories
Former service member Ambrose Cobb spoke candidly about his own struggles after returning from a second tour. “After I came back, I started really dealing with suicide. It can make you feel alone. Being part of this organization and bringing all the other organizations together lets veterans know they are not alone and that there are avenues other than just the VA where they can reach out for help,” Cobb explained.
Coalition President Brandy McMillion reiterated the mission’s focus on saving lives. “The goal is to stop suicides. We are here to help. And there’s tons of people in the community. You can call 988 and press 1 for veterans. If you’re not a veteran, you can just dial 988,” she said.
Mayor backs the effort
Texarkana Mayor Bob Bruggeman read a proclamation recognizing Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, underscoring the city’s commitment to supporting those who have served. He praised the collaborative spirit of the fair, noting that “when our community bands together, we create a safety net that can catch anyone in crisis.”
Practical steps for anyone in crisis
All fair participants were reminded that immediate help is available 24/7 by calling or texting 988. Veterans can reach the Veterans Crisis Line by dialing 988 and pressing 1. The Coalition also distributed printed guides with local mental‑health providers, emergency shelter contacts and employment resources.
Classic car displays and a small food court added a festive atmosphere, encouraging families to linger and learn about the services offered. Beck highlighted the importance of partnerships, stating, “These other agencies have resources that we don’t have, including housing and home‑care assistance. Every little bit helps.”
Continuing the conversation
The fair’s organizers plan to hold similar events throughout the year, aiming to expand outreach to rural veterans in Bowie County and surrounding areas. By fostering collaboration among faith groups, government agencies and private nonprofits, the Coalition hopes to create lasting pathways to recovery and hope for those who have sacrificed for our nation.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
