Santa Fe — In less than eight months, the custom-built outreach vehicle designed to bring veterans services directly to rural communities has traveled to all 33 counties, reaching more than 400 veterans and family members along the way.

The New Mexico Department of Veterans' Services (NMDVS) Mobile Outreach Vehicle reached its 33rd county late August with a stop at the Chaves County Joy Center in Dexter, completing its first statewide tour after visiting 55 communities since its Jan. 30 launch at Jemez Pueblo.

"Reaching every county in New Mexico reflects our commitment to meeting veterans where they are, especially in rural and tribal communities," said NMDVS Cabinet Secretary Jamison Herrera. "By bringing access to services directly into these communities, we are making it easier for veterans and their families to get the assistance they need to access the benefits they earned"

The Mobile Outreach Vehicle gives veterans and eligible family members greater access to accredited veterans service officers, particularly in small towns and tribal communities where in-person assistance can require traveling long distances. Equipped with onboard power, satellite internet and a wheelchair lift, the vehicle provides a private, accessible space for one-on-one assistance in communities across the state.

Veterans and eligible family members can receive help with VA disability compensation claims, health care enrollment, pensions, survivor benefits, military records requests, state veterans' benefits, property tax certificates, Lifetime Parks Passes and other benefits-related services.

The statewide tour has also strengthened NMDVS' connections with tribal communities and built partnerships with tribal leaders, local governments, veteran's organizations and community partners. Those relationships have increased awareness of available benefits and helped connect more veterans with assistance closer to home. Many communities have already requested return visits.

Completing the first statewide tour is only the beginning. As the Mobile Unit continues its statewide outreach, it will remain an important part of the department's mission to ensure veterans and their families have access to the benefits they earned through military service.

Upcoming Mobile Outreach Vehicle stops are available on the NMDVS website's News & Events page: https://www.dvs.nm.gov/news-and-events