The Caregiver Support Program’s (CSP) Caregiver Support Line (CSL) has received its one-millionth call. This milestone reflects the program’s success and highlights the immense interest and reliance caregivers have on the CSL for essential information about VA support services.
“I love VA. Everyone is just so nice. I called because I had questions about the Caregiver Support Program and wondered what other services were available for my husband through VA. The lady on the call was very helpful and made me an appointment for my husband,” said Joane Pomara, 82-year-old spouse and caregiver for her 91-year-old Navy Veteran husband Johnny.
The lifeline to resources
The CSL is a toll-free lifeline, playing a crucial role in connecting caregivers, family members and Veterans with vital VA information. The dedicated CSL team provides information on caregiver support services, counseling, educational services and referrals to local CSP staff at VA facilities. The support line also offers Monthly Telephone Education Group Calls on various topics so caregivers can learn new strategies from the comfort of their own home.
“I’m grateful to be part of this team. It’s so thoughtful that we are celebrating this milestone. That’s a lot of calls, a lot of support and a lot of one-on-one meaningful conversations our team has been part of. This includes the often invisible but essential work of our coordinators, schedule experts and business operations team—all of whom ensure responders are equipped to best support Veterans and their caregivers,” said CSL Dispatcher Mary Finucane.
She has been a social worker for 19 years with the federal government and answered the one-millionth call Jan. 16.
Monumental impact
This achievement is a testament to the program’s success and speaks volumes about the significant interest caregivers have in understanding and utilizing the resources integral to their caregiving journey.
“A heartfelt thank you is extended to the dedicated CSL staff whose unwavering commitment has played a pivotal role in reaching this level of impact. Whether they are answering calls or leading Monthly Telephone Education Group Calls, their invaluable contributions not only enhance CSP but also have a profound effect on the lives of the caregivers we serve,” said CSP Executive Director Colleen Richardson.
About CSP
CSP promotes the health and well-being of Veterans’ caregivers through education, resources, support and services. Every VA facility has a CSP team that provides valuable information about resources to help caregivers stay informed and supported as they support Veterans.
More information can be found on CSP’s website and by contacting local CSP teams. To learn more, watch CSP’s SITREP podcast.
Topics in this story
Link Disclaimer
This page includes links to other websites outside our control and jurisdiction. VA is not responsible for the privacy practices or the content of non-VA Web sites. We encourage you to review the privacy policy or terms and conditions of those sites to fully understand what information is collected and how it is used.
More Stories
Pacific Islands VA opens new Akaka clinic in Kapolei, bringing a variety of VA services to Oahu’s leeward side
Veterans can now navigate VA resources with confidence using the new VA Resource Navigator
In this episode of PTSD Bytes, integrated health psychologist Dr. Octaviana Hemmy discusses treatment for HIV and PTSD.
How do I find out if I am an eligible caretaker? I am currently taking care of my ex-husband who requires a great deal of 24/7 care for his MS. He is a disabled veteran, and I am also a veteran (non-disabled). He can no longer work, and I must work full-time in order to support us financially. It’s all taking a heavy toll on me.
Any updates in regards to the Caregiver Support Stipend for caring our vets? That was once going to be stopped. January 2025? I believe the Barbara Dole Foundation is in support of Caregivers.
What support is available to caretakers of their spouses who passed and now need help and support for themselves?