Resources available for veterans

Miami-Dade Homeless Trust: 11% of homeless population are veterans

HOLLYWOOD, Fla. – A soldier's sacrifice goes beyond the moment a uniform is worn in war. It's the burden of witnessed moments in combat that can haunt for years after battle.

Local 10 spoke with veterans, Moeed Ishrat of Operation Sacred Trust, Rob Book of the Homeless Trust and recently retired Brigadier General Keith Gallagher about the invisible wounds of war.

They said the ghosts of combat and feeling of isolation on return from war can lead a veteran toward substance abuse, divorce, suicide, homelessness, and mental health issues. Of Miami-Dade's homeless population, about 11 percent are veterans, according to Book.

Of Florida's 1.6 million veterans, Vietnam vets are the state's largest veteran population. The state is also home to the largest population of Word War II veterans in the country.

Resources available for veterans

Veterans Crisis Line/Suicide Prevention: 1-800-273-8255 (Press 1)

Florida Department of Veteran Affairs

Operation Sacred Trust: Works to repair relationships and end veteran homelessness

South Florida Work Force: Veterans Program

Miami-Dade Homeless Trust: To refer a homeless person(s) to housing and/or services, please contact the Homeless Helpline at (305) 375-CARE (2273) or Toll Free 1-877-994-HELP (4357). Veterans are considered a vulnerable population and will receive priority.

Mission United: United Way of Broward

Veterans Alcohol and Drug Dependence Rehabilitation Program