News from Senator King’s Office
| News from Senator King’s office(You can find all press releases, other news, social media and podcasts at the newsroom link on Senator King’s website. While there, check out the map of the game-changing federal investments coming to Maine communities. |
| Senator King co-sponsored: S. 1554 – A bill to grant a Federal charter to the National American Indian Veterans, Incorporated. S. 1633 – A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to recognize and honor the service of individuals who served in the United States Cadet Nurse Corps during World War II, and for other purposes. This week: five grant/recognition opportunities (no deadlines); three webinars/events (more coming up). Also: Senator King’s press releases, April e-Newsletter, resources and policy updates. Be well! News from Senator King’s office You can find all press releases, other news, social media and podcasts at the newsroom link on Senator King’s website. While there, check out Veterans Services and Answering the Call, Senator King’s interviews with Maine veterans. Also, see the map of the game-changing federal investments coming to Maine communities. King Works to Expand Job Opportunities for Veterans, Fill Worker Shortages May 18, 2023 WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Angus King, a member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee (SVAC), has cosponsored bipartisan legislation to provide veterans with job opportunities in the trucking industry. The Veteran Improvement Commercial Driver License Act will ensure GI benefits can be used at more commercial driving program (CDL) schools – helping veterans maintain access to good jobs while providing trucking companies with additional workers. The legislation comes… Continue Reading » — King Suggests Simple Fix to VA Director to Smooth Military Transitions May 17, 2023 WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Angus King (I-Maine), a member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs (SVAC), today suggested to Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Denis McDonough a number of simple fixes that could smooth the process for servicemembers transitioning to veteran status. In a hearing of the SVAC committee, Senator King pressed the Secretary about feedback he heard on the transition process at his recent Brunswick Foreign Legion conversation. During the exchange,… Continue Reading » — Maine Congressional Delegation Introduces Bipartisan, Bicameral Bill to Support Maine Veterans’ Homes May 17, 2023 WASHINGTON, D.C – U.S. Senator Angus King, a member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, and Congressman Jared Golden, have introduced a bipartisan, bicameral bill to fast-track reimbursements from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to Maine Veterans’ Homes (MVH). In 2021, Congress passed legislation authorizing the VA to cover the costs of in-home care for veterans with dementia provided by state veteran homes, but the VA has still not begun processing the… Continue Reading » — King Introduces Legislation to Strengthen, Stabilize Immigration Policies at the Southern Border May 16, 2023 WASHINGTON, D.C. –U.S. Senator Angus King has introduced legislation to secure America’s southern border from the unlawful entry of asylum seekers and illegal drugs. While not a substitute for comprehensive immigration reform, the Border Management, Security, and Assistance Act provides immediate assistance to border personnel with additional resources and technology. The bill also provides critical support to nongovernment organizations that receive asylum seekers and includes… Continue Reading » Click HERE to read Senator King’s e-Newsletter The Veterans Crisis Line: 988 then Press 1 — makes it easier to remember and share the number to access help in times of need. Veterans may still reach the Veterans Crisis Line with the current phone number—1-800-273-8255 and Press 1— through chat, and by text (838255). Starting January 17, 2023, VA will provide, pay for or reimburse emergency care for certain Veterans and individuals – including ambulance transportation costs, follow-on inpatient or residential care related to the event for up to 30 days and outpatient care for up to 90 days, including social work. Resource Reminders NEW Housing Affordability and Workforce Report and Dashboard – Developed by the USM Muskie School for the Maine Affordable Housing Coalition NEW DoD Skillbridge Program. This program helps service members prepare for their next career, increases the workforce in Maine, and provides benefits to Maine companies to support both their business needs and our Vets. Skillbridge is open to all military personnel and allows them to spend the last six months of their time in the military working as an intern in the private sector. Service members can search ‘Maine’ here to see which companies are already involved and apply by contacting their installation SkillBridge point of contact. The PACT Act is perhaps the largest health care and benefit expansion in VA history. The full name of the law is The Sergeant First Class (SFC) Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act. Where do you start and who can help? In this month’s VA Maine Today, we learn the answers to those questions and more. The VA Maine Today video series aims to keep Maine Veterans up to date on what is happening in their health care system. Resources to help at-risk renters, landlords and homeowners in Maine: VA, MaineHousing, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and United States Interagency Council on Homelessness. If you, or a veteran you know is struggling with a financial emergency please contact the Maine Bureau of Veterans’ Services at 207-287-7020 or visit their website for more information regarding available resources. MBVS publishes a monthly newsletter with the latest news and happenings regarding veterans issues. The U.S. Department of Labor’s Veterans’ Employment and Training Service (VETS) has a wide range of resources and programs, all working to enable America’s veterans, service members and their spouses to reach their full potential in the workplace. Telecommunications Relay Services (TRS): TRS includes Maine Relay Services, captioned telephone services (CapTel or CTS), and 711. Monthly trainings available. ICYMI (Links to the following news and research items are offered in the spirit of outreach and public education. They do not necessarily reflect the views of the Senator or his staff.) VA now working with 1,000+ community-based coalitions to end Veteran suicide, va.gov, May 18, 2023 WASHINGTON — Today, the Department of Veterans Affairs announced it is now working with more than 1,000 local community coalitions engaged in ending Veteran suicide. These coalitions, established through VA’s Public Health Model for Suicide Prevention, now reach more than 7.5 million Veterans nationwide. By combining community coalitions with clinical intervention strategies as outlined in VA’s National Strategy for Preventing Veteran Suicide, these coalitions help reduce the risk of suicide by providing Veterans with tailored resources and direct support in the communities where they work and live. One example is the Monona County Suicide Prevention Coalition in Iowa, which recently implemented an “Ask the Question” campaign to open lines of communication between Veterans, their community members, and their medical providers. — VA invites Veterans, public to attend Memorial Day ceremonies at 130+ VA national cemeteries, va.gov, May 17, 2023 WASHINGTON — Today, VA announced that it will host Memorial Day ceremonies at more than 130 national cemeteries to commemorate those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their nation. VA’s National Cemetery Administration invites Veterans, their families, caregivers, and survivors — as well as members of the public — to attend these solemn wreath-laying ceremonies, which will take place throughout Memorial Day weekend. A complete list of Memorial Day events can be found here. — Veterans Health Care: Staffing Challenges and Recommendations for Improvement, gao.gov, May 16, 2023 GAO’s past work has shown that an agency’s workforce plays a central role in transforming an agency into a high-performing organization. Recent legislative changes that increased the number of veterans eligible for certain services significantly affect VHA’s staffing efforts. Growth in veterans’ demand for community care and mental health services has posed challenges for maintaining an adequate workforce for programs in these areas. VHA is also in the midst of modernizing its human resources functions, including key onboarding tasks that help ensure those working in VA medical facilities are, for example, free of problematic background issues. This statement describes GAO’s recent work, including recommendations GAO has made to VHA, on (1) staffing needs for its community care program; (2) recruiting and retaining staff for its programs that integrate mental health care within primary care settings; and (3) monitoring its new hire onboarding tasks. — Servicemembers Transitioning to Civilian Life:DOD Could Enhance the Transition Assistance Program by Better Leveraging Performance Information, gao.gov, May 16, 2023 To improve the Transition Assistance Program (TAP), federal law required the service branches to establish counseling pathways, among other actions. GAO found that DOD service branches had fully implemented the TAP counseling pathways. These pathways include a self-assessment, individualized initial counseling, tier assignment that reflects servicemembers’ transition preparedness, and a revised core curriculum. Service branch officials, TAP staff, and servicemembers GAO interviewed from selected installations generally expressed positive feedback on the TAP counseling pathways. Over 90 percent of transitioning servicemembers participated in the TAP counseling pathways, according to GAO’s analysis of TAP data from April 1, 2021 to March 31, 2022. Although participation increased in 2-day tailored classes on issues like higher education or vocational training, the service branches waived many servicemembers from attending them. Per service branch policies, servicemembers who need maximum transition support must attend a 2-day class, but GAO found that nearly a quarter of them did not. GAO also found that most servicemembers (70 percent) did not start TAP at least 1 year in advance, as generally required. — Letter: Inaction is irresponsible with looming Social Security cut. By U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, bangordailynews.com, May 16, 2023 Social Security is going broke. If nothing is done, there will be automatic 24% Social Security benefit cuts for all seniors in nine years. Unfortunately, there’s been a lot of inaccurate information in the press. The biggest threat to Social Security is those that pledge to do nothing. Inaction is irresponsible. I have been working on a proposal with Sen. Angus King, I-Maine, to address the third rail of politics. We’ve engaged a double-digit bipartisan group of senators to have a thoughtful discussion on the future of Social Security. Some have reported that it increases the federal retirement age to 70. Let me set the record straight: this is not true. No final decisions have been made on our proposal, but I can say none of the options change the retirement age for current seniors or anyone within decades of retirement. Sen. King and I are leading an honest discussion to preserve and protect the retirement benefits Americans have earned. He’s been an ideal partner in taking on this enormous issue, because he’s solutions-focused and open to good ideas, regardless of who comes up with them. Let’s not let disinformation on the retirement age get in the way of action. — What the end of the Public Health Emergency means for VA. By Hans Petersen, news.va.gov, May 10, 2023 How the end of the Public Health Emergency impacts VA care and services When the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE) expires on May 11, 2023, some of VA’s pandemic-related authorities will expire as well. VA has been preparing for this moment for months, working to make this transition as seamless as possible for Veterans, their families, caregivers and survivors. VA is also working with our partners in the Administration and in Congress to extend or reinstate many of these authorities when possible. Webinars and other events Veterans in Residence Showcase May 22-26th, 2023 Sponsor; Bunker Labs The Veterans in Residence Showcase will honor over 300 Veteran and military spouse entrepreneurs who are participating in the Veterans in Residence Program across 33 cohorts across the country. The Veterans in Residence Showcase exists to rally business and civic leaders around Veteran and military spouses, making real connections that lead to real opportunities like customers, capital access, and partnerships. WHO IS PRESENTING? Veterans in Residence participants are early-stage companies from various industries with revenue under $150,000. Our cohort members are focused on gaining significant traction in their entrepreneurial journey. You will also see our Bunker Labs Ambassadors facilitating the Showcase. Bunker Labs Ambassadors are the face of veteran and military spouse entrepreneurship in their local communities and are seeking significant connections to propel our community forward. WHO IS INVITED? Please join us if you are a business or civic leader looking to support Bunker Labs entrepreneurs in your local community. Meet our Bunker Labs Ambassadors and Veterans in Residence participants and make a lasting impact that builds local economies across the United States. Please share the invite, show up, and connect the dots that can change the trajectory of entrepreneurial dreams. — Join the National Alzheimer’s and Dementia Resource Center (NADRC) for a free, public webinar on the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) strategy to promote aging in place for veterans. Thursday, May 25, 2023 3:00-4:00 PM ET The webinar will provide an overview of VHA’s home and community-based programs for all veterans, including those living with dementia. The webinar will discuss VHA’s efforts to support veterans who wish to safely age in place. Attendees will learn about related topics and how to find additional information and resources available from VHA. Please note: NADRC webinars are recorded and will be available for viewing at nadrc.acl.gov. Pre-registration is required to attend the live webinars. Closed captioning is available during the live event and is included in recorded webinars. FMI: email NADRC-Webinars@rti.org — Honor Flight Maine Welcome Home Event Sunday, May 28, 12 noon, Portland Jetport Free parking-Free shuttle ONLY from the State of Maine Building, 151 Jetport Blvd Honor Flight Maine is a non-profit organization whose mission is to take Maine veterans to Washington, D.C. to visit their memorials. As part of the experience, a homecoming parade is held at the Portland Jetport upon the veterans’ arrival home. Well-wishers start lining up inside the Jetport at 12:00 pm on Sunday. This year’s remaining homecomings are on September 24 and October 29th. — U.S. Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs upcoming hearings (Links are generally posted a week in advance.) MAY 31 (Wednesday): 3:00 @ Russell 418 SVAC Nomination Hearing: Tanya J. Bradsher, Nominee for Deputy Secretary of VA JUNE 7 (Wednesday): 3:00 @ Russell 418 SVAC Hearing: VA Long-term care JUNE 14 (Wednesday): 3:00 @ Russell 418 SVAC Hearing: Rural Veterans JUNE 21 (Wednesday): 3:00 @ Russell 418 SVAC Hearing: Substance Use Disorders Among Veterans in Rural America — StoryCorps Military Voices Recording Sessions, mainepublic.org Maine Public is excited to welcome the StoryCorps’ Military Voices Initiative to Maine in 2023 for a series of LIVE events and VIRTUAL recording sessions. This project is an opportunity for Maine service members and their families to preserve their stories at the Library of Congress. Select recordings will also air on Maine Public Radio as part of a special series this year. The Military Voices Initiative provides a platform for veterans, service members, and military families to share their stories. In doing so we honor their voices, amplify their experiences, and let them know that we—as a nation—are listening. If you or someone you know would like to participate in the project, please SIGN UP for one of these recording sessions: RECORDING SESSION THREE: IN PERSON PORTLAND Monday, May 29 to Friday, June 2 Location: Cape Elizabeth Historical Preservation Society Museum at Fort Williams More about the recording process HERE. — Maine Veterans Coordinating Committee (MVCC) Monday, June 5, 2023 6PM via Zoom Log-in here: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84773217133?pwd=dFNhT1dLcHBWOFBVRHNiMXk1cHZLZz09 The Maine Veterans Coordinating Committee is established as a nonprofit, nonpartisan and nonsectarian organization for the purpose of serving the State’s congressional delegation, the Legislature, local governments and the general public as a clearinghouse of information and suggested legislation regarding veterans’ issues at local, state and federal levels. — Capitol Coffee with Senator King and staff Every few Wednesdays, Senator King likes to open his office up from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. for a “Capitol Coffee” with Maine people in the area. It’s always a fun opportunity to see old friends, make some new ones, and hear about the issues that are on their minds. Along with coffee, we are proud to provide homemade blueberry bread made with real Maine blueberries! Stop by to say hello on one of the upcoming dates: June: 7th July: 12th, 19th, 26th The office is located in 133 Hart Senate Office Building. RSVPs are not required. If you have any questions, please feel free to call the Washington, D.C. office at (202) 224-5344. Hope you can visit! — Informational Webinar: Outreach and Assistance for Socially Disadvantaged Farmers and Ranchers and Veteran Farmers and Ranchers Session 1: June 12, 2023 at 2 p.m. EDT Meeting ID: 161 269 0234 Passcode: 563668 Session 2: July 10 at 2 p.m. EDT Meeting ID: 160 725 6449 Passcode: 595722 Funding is made through USDA’s Outreach and Assistance for Socially Disadvantaged Farmers and Ranchers and Veteran Farmers and Ranchers Program, also known as the 2501 Program. This program is administered by the USDA Office of Partnerships and Public Engagement (OPPE). — Maine Military and Community Network Eleventh Annual Conference Thursday, June 29, 2023 8 AM – 4:30 PM Bangor High School, 885 Broadway, Bangor, ME With Keynote Speaker Suzanne Rancourt A multimodal artist born and raised in the mountains of West Central Maine, Suzanne Rancourt applies neuro-cognitive methods to aid survivors of Traumatic Brain Injury, other life altering traumatic events, or people living with disability challenges. Specializing in the terrains of Traumatic Brain Injury, Post Traumatic Stress, and other significant life altering events, Suzanne has worked professionally for over 30 years with a diverse clientele in equally diverse environments. An artist in her own right, Suzanne is a tribally affiliated Native American and Military Veteran. For more information on the Keynote Speaker, go HERE. Notices of Funding, Proposals, Recognition (Funding opps listed by due date. Additional resources at bottom of this section.) Eisner Foundation invites applications for Eisner Prize Fellowships Deadline: May 31, 2023 The Eisner Foundation identifies, advocates for, and invests in high-quality, innovative programs that unite multiple generations to enrich our communities. Since 2011, the Eisner Foundation has awarded the Eisner Prize to honor people and organizations doing exceptional intergenerational work nationwide. In this next phase in the evolution of the Eisner Prize, the foundation will provide financial resources, networking opportunities, and the prestige of the Eisner Prize to leaders with new ideas and perspectives that will propel the field forward. The application will be open to anyone working to innovate in intergenerational connection—whether through research, programs, technology, or other efforts advancing the field. Young people, people of color, and those working with historically marginalized communities are particularly encouraged to apply. — The PATIENTS Professors Academy Sponsor: University of Maryland School of Pharmacy Deadline: June 5, 2023 Contact: patients@rx.umaryland.edu The PATIENTS Professors Academy is a 5-week online training program that prepares participants to learn about patient-centered practices within their work and communities. It is an opportunity to interact with and learn from a diverse population about how to engage communities in research. A focus is on populations most impacted by health inequity. The program is designed for a national audience of patients, caregivers, community leaders, patient advocates, researchers, healthcare workers, pharmaceutical workers, and government employees. The program is provided at no cost to participants. — The Bob Woodruff Foundation Grants Program Applications submitted by June 15, 2023 will receive a response by November 1, 2023* *Dates are subject to change Funds programmatic efforts serving the military/veteran community. BWF focuses on programs that improve overall health and wellbeing of service members, veterans, their families, and caregivers. — Enhancing Agricultural Opportunities for Military Veterans Competitive Grants Program Deadline: June 19, 2023 Sponsor: United States Department of Agriculture The Enhancing Agricultural Opportunities for Military Veterans Program provides grants to non-profits to increase the number of military veterans gaining knowledge and skills through comprehensive, hands-on and immersive model farm and ranch programs offered regionally that lead to successful careers in the food and agricultural sector. The program encourages the development of training opportunities specifically designed for military veterans. AgVets projects will offer onsite, hands-on training and classroom education leading to a comprehensive understanding of successful farm and ranch operations and management practices. Projects may also offer workforce readiness and employment prospects for service-disabled veterans. Ensuring there are pathways for military veterans interested in pursuing careers in agriculture — regardless of age or production choice — strengthens agricultural production and rural economies across the United States. NIFA requests applications for the AgVets to provide grants to nonprofit organizations for training programs and services to establish and enhance farming and ranching opportunities for military veterans. — USDA Announces $45 Million Funding Opportunity to Support Underserved and Veteran Farmers, Ranchers, and Foresters Deadline: Tuesday July 25, 2023 Learn more in June and July webinars (see events, above). WASHINGTON, April 27, 2023 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced approximately $45 million available to organizations that help underserved and veteran farmers, ranchers, and foresters own and operate successful farms. Funding is made through USDA’s Outreach and Assistance for Socially Disadvantaged Farmers and Ranchers and Veteran Farmers and Ranchers Program, also known as the 2501 Program. This program is administered by the USDA Office of Partnerships and Public Engagement (OPPE). More resources On Senator King’s website, see the Grants page as well as info about Congressionally Directed Spending. The Maine Philanthropy Center assists nonprofit organizations by helping them find funding sources for their organizations. They have a variety of services and resources available. Search GuideStar for the most complete, up-to-date nonprofit data available. — As always, I am eager to hear from you. Please feel free to call or write. Thank you for all that you are doing! Teague Morris Outreach Director | Senator Angus S. King, Jr., Maine 40 Western Ave., Suite 412 | Augusta, ME 04330 Tel: 207-622-8292 | Tel:1-800-432-1599| Cell: 207-252-8997 Fax: 207-621-0286 |teague_morris@king.senate.gov |
| Cyberspace Solarium Co-Chairs “Extremely Concerned” About Vacant Cyber Director Role, Urge Administration for NomineeMay 12, 2023WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) and Representative Mike Gallagher (R-Wisc.), Co-Chairs of the Cyberspace Solarium Commission (CSC), are urging President Joe Biden to nominate a new National Cyber Director (NCD). In a letter to the President, King and Gallagher lay out the importance of the National Cyber Director role and stress that the current vacancy endangers America’s national security. The Co-Chairs strongly recommend Acting NCD Kemba Walden… Continue Reading »— |
| King Pushes Parks Director to Secure Future of America’s Great OutdoorsMay 10, 2023WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), Chairman of the Senate National Parks Subcommittee, today led a Subcommittee hearing with National Park Service (NPS) Director Charles Sams to discuss a range of challenges and opportunities facing America’s iconic public recreation areas. During the hearing, Chairman King pressed Director Sams on properly funding maintenance efforts, maintaining a sufficient NPS workforce, and managing growing park visitation. Chairman King… Continue Reading »— |
| King, Thune Introduce Bipartisan Resolution to Confront China’s “Economic Fraud”May 10, 2023WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Angus King (I-Maine) and John Thune (R-S.D.) have introduced a resolution to address China’s exploitation of international trade rules and create a more level global economic playing field. The resolution calls on the World Trade Organization (WTO) to reform its special and differential treatment rules so competitive countries, such as the People’s Republic of China, are not able to self-designate as a ‘developing country’ in order… Continue Reading »— |
| Maine Congressional Delegation Presses Biden Administration to Expand Markets for Maine BlueberriesMay 9, 2023WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King is leading a bipartisan, bicameral group of lawmakers with Senator Susan Collins and Representatives Chellie Pingree and Jared Golden calling on the Biden Administration to expand markets for Maine blueberries and reduce barriers facing farmers who export the fruit. In a letter written by Senator King with Congressmen Larsen (D-WA) and Valadao (R-CA) and co-signed by the entire Maine Delegation, the lawmakers urge U.S. Trade Representative… Continue Reading » |
| Click HERE to read Senator King’s e-Newsletter |
| The Veterans Crisis Line: 988 then Press 1— makes it easier to remember and share the number to access help in times of need. Veterans may still reach the Veterans Crisis Line with the current phone number—1-800-273-8255 and Press 1— through chat, and by text (838255).Starting January 17, 2023, VA will provide, pay for or reimburse emergency care for certain Veterans and individuals – including ambulance transportation costs, follow-on inpatient or residential care related to the event for up to 30 days and outpatient care for up to 90 days, including social work. |
| Resource Reminders The PACT Act is perhaps the largest health care and benefit expansion in VA history. The full name of the law is The Sergeant First Class (SFC) Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act. Where do you start and who can help? In this month’s VA Maine Today, we learn the answers to those questions and more. The VA Maine Today video series aims to keep Maine Veterans up to date on what is happening in their health care system. Resources to help at-risk renters, landlords and homeowners in Maine: VA, MaineHousing, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and United States Interagency Council on Homelessness.If you, or a veteran you know is struggling with a financial emergency please contact the Maine Bureau of Veterans’ Services at 207-287-7020 or visit their website for more information regarding available resources. MBVS publishes a monthly newsletter with the latest news and happenings regarding veterans issues. The U.S. Department of Labor’s Veterans’ Employment and Training Service (VETS) has a wide range of resources and programs, all working to enable America’s veterans, service members and their spouses to reach their full potential in the workplace.Telecommunications Relay Services (TRS): TRS includes Maine Relay Services, captioned telephone services (CapTel or CTS), and 711. Monthly trainings available. |
| ICYMI(Links to the following news and research items are offered in the spirit of outreach and public education. They do not necessarily reflect the views of the Senator or his staff.) |
| VA Maine Today – May 2023Did you know that there is a VA Police Department at Togus? What is their purpose and how can you learn more? In this month’s VA Maine Today, we learn the answers to those questions and more. VA Maine Today is our video series that aims to keep Maine Veterans up to date on what is happening in our health care system. Please join us and watch VA Maine Today and share it with others.If you are interested in becoming a VA Police Officer visit https://www.usajobs.gov/— |
| Sharper: Military Recruitment. By Anna Pederson et al., cnas.org, May 10, 2023 Analysis from CNAS experts on the most critical challenges for U.S. foreign policy. With the 50th anniversary of the United States’ All-Volunteer Force this summer, and the current recruiting crisis potentially impacting force readiness, military personnel policy will determine how the services operate for the next half-century. What are the challenges impacting military recruitment, and how should the various branches and Department of Defense respond? CNAS experts are sharpening the conversation around military personnel policy and the ongoing recruiting crisis. Read the latest edition of Sharper to explore their ideas and recommendations.— |
| Studies show VA health care is better than or equal to non-VA health care, va.gov, May 8, 2023 WASHINGTON — The Journal of General Internal Medicine and the Journal of the American College of Surgeons published articles based on a systematic review of studies about VA health care, concluding VA health care is consistently as good as — or better than — non-VA health care. The findings come from a national review of peer-reviewed studies that evaluated VA on quality, safety, access, patient experience, and comparative cost/efficiency. Of the 26 studies that looked at non-surgical care, 15 reported VA care was better than non-VA care and seven reported equal or mixed clinical quality outcomes. Of the 13 studies that looked at quality and safety in surgical care, 11 reported VA surgical care is comparable or better than non-VA care. VA is currently delivering more care to more Veterans than ever before in the nation’s history. Among the Veterans who receive their care from VA, approximately 90% trust VA to deliver their care.— |
| Inter-Agency Effort Targets the Half of Veterans Who Never Engage With VA. By Aaron Boyd, nextgov.com, May 8, 2023The resource hub out of the departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs is part of a larger White House initiative to better respond to the life experiences of Americans.More than half of servicemembers leaving the military never engage with the Veterans Affairs Department—a statistic VA and the Defense Department are working in tandem to improve with a central repository of resources and useful information. The new joint project is part of the Biden administration’s latest customer experience—or CX—push: federal agencies are combining their efforts to focus on “life experiences” of Americans going through a difficult time and in need of support from their government. Rather than attempt to improve a single program, the life experience projects seek to break barriers between agencies to focus on how different parts of the government can come together to help people in crisis—or, in some cases prevent a future crisis from emerging. The VA and DOD seek to do the latter by arming servicemembers with important resources and information as they transition to civilian life. |
| Webinars and other events |
| The Census Bureau will hold a pre-release webinar to discuss the 2020 Census Demographic Profile and Demographic and Housing Characteristics File (DHC) to be publicly released May 25. May 16, 2023 at 1 p.m. EDTThese products provide demographic and housing characteristics of local communities, including population data on age, sex, race, Hispanic origin, families and households, and data on homeownership and vacant and occupied housing. The Demographic Profile provides an overview of topics in the 2020 Census in one, easy-to-reference table for geographies down to the tract level. The DHC provides more detailed tables, many down to the block level. The webinar will provide information on the data available and how to access it. A live Q&A session with Census Bureau subject-matter experts will immediately follow the briefing.— |
| Capitol Coffee with Senator King and staffEvery few Wednesdays, Senator King likes to open his office up from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. for a “Capitol Coffee” with Maine people in the area. It’s always a fun opportunity to see old friends, make some new ones, and hear about the issues that are on their minds. Along with coffee, we are proud to provide homemade blueberry bread made with real Maine blueberries! Stop by to say hello on one of the upcoming dates: May: 17th June: 7th July: 12th, 19th, 26thThe office is located in 133 Hart Senate Office Building. RSVPs are not required. If you have any questions, please feel free to call the Washington, D.C. office at (202) 224-5344. Hope you can visit!— |
| U.S. Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs upcoming hearings(Links are generally posted a week in advance.) MAY 17 (Wednesday): 3:00 @ Russell 418 SVAC Hearing: FY 2024 Budget Proposal MAY 31 (Wednesday): 3:00 @ Russell 418 SVAC Nomination Hearing: Tanya J. Bradsher, Nominee for Deputy Secretary of VA JUNE 7 (Wednesday): 3:00 @ Russell 418 SVAC Hearing: VA Long-term care JUNE 14 (Wednesday): 3:00 @ Russell 418 SVAC Hearing: Rural VeteransJUNE 21 (Wednesday): 3:00 @ Russell 418 SVAC Hearing: Substance Use Disorders Among Veterans in Rural America— |
| The RAND Epstein Family Veterans Policy Research Institute Invites You to Attend Preventing Veteran Suicide: Raising Awareness and Inspiring Action Through Film Thursday, May 18 4–5 p.m. EDTNote: This webinar will feature discussions and portrayals of suicide. If you are in crisis, dial 988 to reach the national Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Suicide is a major public health issue and among the leading causes of death in the United States. Although suicide rates among veterans have decreased—perhaps as a result of improved prevention and intervention—they remain elevated relative to nonveterans. Preventing veteran suicide is a top clinical priority for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), and the RAND Epstein Family Veterans Policy Research Institute is committed to helping VA—and the country—achieve this critical goal. In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, this webinar will explore suicide prevention strategies and the role of film in raising awareness and inspiring action. The session will open with a screening of the powerful short film Merit x Zoe, followed by a guided panel discussion featuring the film’s director/writer/producer and experts in suicide prevention. Live CART transcription will be provided. Featured Speakers Please register online. This event is open to the public and advance registration is required. Those who register will receive Zoom connection details via email. For more details, please visit the event page.— |
| Join the National Alzheimer’s and Dementia Resource Center (NADRC) for a free, public webinar on the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) strategy to promote aging in place for veterans. Thursday, May 25, 20233:00-4:00 PM ETThe webinar will provide an overview of VHA’s home and community-based programs for all veterans, including those living with dementia. The webinar will discuss VHA’s efforts to support veterans who wish to safely age in place. Attendees will learn about related topics and how to find additional information and resources available from VHA. Please note:NADRC webinars are recorded and will be available for viewing at nadrc.acl.gov.Pre-registration is required to attend the live webinars.Closed captioning is available during the live event and is included in recorded webinars.FMI: email NADRC-Webinars@rti.org— |
| StoryCorps Military Voices Recording Sessions, mainepublic.orgMaine Public is excited to welcome the StoryCorps’ Military Voices Initiative to Maine in 2023 for a series of LIVE events and VIRTUAL recording sessions. This project is an opportunity for Maine service members and their families to preserve their stories at the Library of Congress. Select recordings will also air on Maine Public Radio as part of a special series this year. The Military Voices Initiative provides a platform for veterans, service members, and military families to share their stories. In doing so we honor their voices, amplify their experiences, and let them know that we—as a nation—are listening.If you or someone you know would like to participate in the project, please SIGN UP for one of these recording sessions: RECORDING SESSION THREE: IN PERSON PORTLAND Monday, May 29 to Friday, June 2 Location: Cape Elizabeth Historical Preservation Society Museum at Fort WilliamsMore about the recording process HERE. — |
| Maine Veterans Coordinating Committee (MVCC)Monday, June 5, 20236PM via Zoom Log-in here: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84773217133?pwd=dFNhT1dLcHBWOFBVRHNiMXk1cHZLZz09The Maine Veterans Coordinating Committee is established as a nonprofit, nonpartisan and nonsectarian organization for the purpose of serving the State’s congressional delegation, the Legislature, local governments and the general public as a clearinghouse of information and suggested legislation regarding veterans’ issues at local, state and federal levels.— |
| Informational Webinar: Outreach and Assistance for Socially Disadvantaged Farmers and Ranchers and Veteran Farmers and RanchersSession 1: June 12, 2023 at 2 p.m. EDT Meeting ID: 161 269 0234 Passcode: 563668 Session 2: July 10 at 2 p.m. EDT Meeting ID: 160 725 6449 Passcode: 595722Funding is made through USDA’s Outreach and Assistance for Socially Disadvantaged Farmers and Ranchers and Veteran Farmers and Ranchers Program, also known as the 2501 Program. This program is administered by the USDA Office of Partnerships and Public Engagement (OPPE).— |
| Maine Military and Community Network Eleventh Annual ConferenceThursday, June 29, 20238 AM – 4:30 PMBangor High School, 885 Broadway, Bangor, MEWith Keynote Speaker Suzanne RancourtA multimodal artist born and raised in the mountains of West Central Maine, Suzanne Rancourt applies neuro-cognitive methods to aid survivors of Traumatic Brain Injury, other life altering traumatic events, or people living with disability challenges. Specializing in the terrains of Traumatic Brain Injury, Post Traumatic Stress, and other significant life altering events, Suzanne has worked professionally for over 30 years with a diverse clientele in equally diverse environments. An artist in her own right, Suzanne is a tribally affiliated Native American and Military Veteran. For more information on the Keynote Speaker, go HERE. |
| Notices of Funding, Proposals, Recognition(Funding opps listed by due date. Additional resources at bottom of this section.) |
| AmeriCorps invites applications for 2023 Volunteer Generation FundDeadline: May 16, 2023 at 5:00 p.m. ETAmeriCorps, the federal agency for national service and volunteerism, has announced a funding opportunity through the 2023 Volunteer Generation Fund to strengthen nonprofit and other social service organizations’ ability to recruit, retain, and manage mission-critical volunteers. AmeriCorps will make more than $8 million available for organizations with programs that meet community needs, expand volunteering, and strengthen the capacity to recruit and retain skill-based volunteers and develop strategies to use volunteers effectively to solve problems.— |
| Staff Sergeant Fox Suicide Prevention GrantsApplication Deadline: May 19, 2023 Sponsor: U.S. Department of Veterans AffairsCommunity-based grants for eligible entities to provide, or coordinate the provision of, suicide prevention services to eligible veterans and their families. Priority is given to rural communities, tribal lands, medically underserved areas, and U.S. Territories.— |
| Eisner Foundation invites applications for Eisner Prize FellowshipsDeadline: May 31, 2023The Eisner Foundation identifies, advocates for, and invests in high-quality, innovative programs that unite multiple generations to enrich our communities. Since 2011, the Eisner Foundation has awarded the Eisner Prize to honor people and organizations doing exceptional intergenerational work nationwide. In this next phase in the evolution of the Eisner Prize, the foundation will provide financial resources, networking opportunities, and the prestige of the Eisner Prize to leaders with new ideas and perspectives that will propel the field forward. The application will be open to anyone working to innovate in intergenerational connection—whether through research, programs, technology, or other efforts advancing the field. Young people, people of color, and those working with historically marginalized communities are particularly encouraged to apply.— |
| The PATIENTS Professors AcademySponsor: University of Maryland School of Pharmacy Deadline: June 5, 2023Contact: patients@rx.umaryland.edu The PATIENTS Professors Academy is a 5-week online training program that prepares participants to learn about patient-centered practices within their work and communities. It is an opportunity to interact with and learn from a diverse population about how to engage communities in research. A focus is on populations most impacted by health inequity.The program is designed for a national audience of patients, caregivers, community leaders, patient advocates, researchers, healthcare workers, pharmaceutical workers, and government employees.The program is provided at no cost to participants.— |
| NEW The Bob Woodruff Foundation Grants ProgramApplications submitted by June 15, 2023 will receive a response by November 1, 2023* *Dates are subject to changeFunds programmatic efforts serving the military/veteran community. BWF focuses on programs that improve overall health and wellbeing of service members, veterans, their families, and caregivers. — |
| Enhancing Agricultural Opportunities for Military Veterans Competitive Grants Program Deadline: June 19, 2023Sponsor: United States Department of Agriculture The Enhancing Agricultural Opportunities for Military Veterans Program provides grants to non-profits to increase the number of military veterans gaining knowledge and skills through comprehensive, hands-on and immersive model farm and ranch programs offered regionally that lead to successful careers in the food and agricultural sector. The program encourages the development of training opportunities specifically designed for military veterans. AgVets projects will offer onsite, hands-on training and classroom education leading to a comprehensive understanding of successful farm and ranch operations and management practices. Projects may also offer workforce readiness and employment prospects for service-disabled veterans. Ensuring there are pathways for military veterans interested in pursuing careers in agriculture — regardless of age or production choice — strengthens agricultural production and rural economies across the United States. NIFA requests applications for the AgVets to provide grants to nonprofit organizations for training programs and services to establish and enhance farming and ranching opportunities for military veterans.— |
| USDA Announces $45 Million Funding Opportunity to Support Underserved and Veteran Farmers, Ranchers, and Foresters Deadline: Tuesday July 25, 2023Learn more in June and July webinars (see events, above).WASHINGTON, April 27, 2023 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced approximately $45 million available to organizations that help underserved and veteran farmers, ranchers, and foresters own and operate successful farms. Funding is made through USDA’s Outreach and Assistance for Socially Disadvantaged Farmers and Ranchers and Veteran Farmers and Ranchers Program, also known as the 2501 Program. This program is administered by the USDA Office of Partnerships and Public Engagement (OPPE). |
| More resourcesOn Senator King’s website, see the Grants page as well as info about Congressionally Directed Spending. The Maine Philanthropy Center assists nonprofit organizations by helping them find funding sources for their organizations. They have a variety of services and resources available.Search GuideStar for the most complete, up-to-date nonprofit data available.— |
| As always, I am eager to hear from you. Please feel free to call or write. Thank you for all that you are doing! Teague Morris Outreach Director | Senator Angus S. King, Jr., Maine 40 Western Ave., Suite 412 | Augusta, ME 04330 Tel: 207-622-8292 | Tel:1-800-432-1599| Cell: 207-252-8997 Fax: 207-621-0286 |teague_morris@king.senate.gov |