Lakeland VetFest 2024: Building Community and Serving Veterans
Florida’s 18th District Congressman Scott Franklin hosted Lakeland VetFest 2024 at Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium, an event designed to honor and support Veterans and their families.
This community-driven initiative brought together a diverse network of organizations, all committed to assisting Veterans every step of the way on their journeys after service, recovery and reintegration into civilian life.
Twenty-five attendees were able to ask questions, enroll, request appointments, have their pictures processed for VA Health Identification Cards and initiate facility transfers by Eligibility/Enrollment Services.
“VetFest is a one-stop shop that connects Veterans with all kinds of services that can be challenging to seek out on their own,” said Franklin. “We’re hoping to continue to grow this event every year.”
The event featured a wide array of services and resources provided by esteemed organizations, including OneBlood, Lakeland Vet Center, and Citrus Connection. Other notable contributors included the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs, CareerSource Polk County, and St. Vincent de Paul CARES, which serves 19 counties across Central and West Florida.
“The opportunity to connect Veterans to so many resources in one place exemplifies the support and gratitude our communities feel for those who have served,” David Dunning, executive director of James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital. “This incredible event allows us to create pathways that are easier for Veterans to understand and navigate with face-to-face communication in an environment with people who understand their needs.”
Attendees had access everything from toxic exposure screenings to flu shots, while organizations like Operation Outdoor Freedom and Project Vet Relief showcased programs specifically designed to aid Veterans and their families.
In addition to health and wellness resources, the event also included education, employment and advocacy. America’s SBDC Florida, the Veterans Benefits Administration and Florida National Cemetery were among those offering help. Volunteers from the Florida Southern Army ROTC further enriched the day, reflecting the deep ties between veterans and the local community.
“I’m a Vietnam Veteran, and I’ve been in the system for about 20 years,” said Raymond Ivey, Army Veteran. “I got an email about this from the congressman and sent it to every Veteran I know in Polk County. It’s important for us to have this information.”
The event was not just a presentation of services but a heartfelt salute to the brave men and women who have served our nation. Events like VetFests are a vital resource for those who have given so much.
Lakeland VetFest 2024 resulted in 11 new enrollments into VA care, 20 Toxic Exposure Screenings and education about the PACT Act and many other questions or concerns for 75 Veterans and their families.
For more information about the PACT Act benefits for which you may be eligible, please visit:
The PACT Act and your VA benefits