Coffee, Connection and Care: Women Veterans Gather at Providence Vet Center
By Justyn Charon, Public Affairs Specialist
Connection can be just as important as clinical care when it comes to overall health. For Women Veterans attending the Coffee Lover Club at the Providence Vet Center, a simple cup of coffee became the starting point for meaningful conversation, support and heart health awareness.
Hosted by the Providence Vet Center in collaboration with the VA Providence Healthcare System, the event brought Women Veterans together in a relaxed environment designed to encourage openness and connection. The gathering was held as part of VA Providence’s Go Red initiative, with Women’s Heart Health Awareness information shared throughout the afternoon.
“Creating space for connection is essential,” said Heather Tarducci, director of the Providence Vet Center. “When Women Veterans feel comfortable and supported, it opens the door for conversations about health, stress and self-care that truly matter.”
Participants engaged in informal discussion while learning about heart disease as the leading health risk facing women. Conversations focused on prevention, recognizing symptoms, managing stress and the importance of routine care. By delivering education in a non-clinical setting, the event reduced barriers and made information easier to absorb and apply.
Clinician Stephanie Crowley supported discussions during the event, helping guide conversations around emotional well-being and its connection to heart health. “Heart health is closely tied to how we manage stress and support one another,” Crowley said. “Events like this remind Women Veterans that caring for their heart includes caring for their mental and emotional health.”
VA Providence extends sincere thanks to the Providence Vet Center for hosting the Coffee Lover Club and to Joanne Barrett, Women Veterans Program Manager, for organizing and coordinating the event. Their collaboration ensured that Women Veterans had access to both education and community in a setting built on trust.
Women Veterans interested in learning more about programs and services at the Providence Vet Center are encouraged to visit www.va.gov/providence-vet-center/.