Many war veterans return to civilian life with physical injuries that must be healed or overcome. Many others return with invisible scars, injuries that aren’t always obvious and can be difficult to treat. But there is a place nearby that is making a difference. It is a residential transition center for veterans in crisis called the Five Star Veterans Center.
Five Star Veterans Center is one of the Charities of the Day for this year’s PLAYERS Championship. The nonprofit, located at 40 Acme St., Jacksonville, provides displaced military veterans safe housing and the supportive services they need to successfully transition to living independently in a place they call home.
The focus is on veterans ages 22-55 who are suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injuries, depression, anxiety or other mental health issues. Founded in 2012, Five Star Veterans Center has a 96% success rate and 400 program graduates.
With 41 residential beds in its on-site housing, the center offers a 6- to 12-month program that helps the veterans achieve their goals. Mental health service is offered round the clock.
A veteran service officer assists residents in accessing their benefits.
In addition to restoration of mental and physical health, the center offers education, job and life readiness preparation and support for former residents even after they have moved on from the center.
Veterans can also take part in K9 and equine therapy off site.
For anyone who would like to learn more or to donate, go to 5starveteranscenter.org. Veterans tell their stories at 5starveteranscenter.org/veterans-stories.
