U.S. Veterans Affairs Secretary Robert McDonald announced Sunday in Atlanta that the agency will open a new mental health crisis line in Atlanta by the end of the year.
Speaking before the national convention of disabled veterans in Atlanta, McDonald said the crisis line will add 200 responders on duty everyday at all hours.
“We are keeping a sacred trust to help veterans in need,” McDonald told the large crowd.
McDonald said the mental health needs of veterans have increased greatly in recent years.
U.S. Sen. Johnny Isakson, also on hand, praised the move. He believes the center will reduce the crisis of suicide among vets.
“Those in need of mental health services need instant access to VA services,” he said.
Isakson, who is chairman of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee, added, “They gave us everything they had when we needed it. We owe the same to them.”
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