El Paso VA offers weekend activities (Sept 12)

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- The borderland is home to hundreds of thousands of veterans. The Department of Veteran's Affairs works hard to make sure that each is healthy, mentally and physically. It also regularly schedules activities, so that veterans can friendship and a sense of community.

As part of Suicide Prevention Month this September, there is a schedule of events. We caught up with them as they broke out the art supplies, to create "Boxes of Hope." They're essentially boxes that veterans can decorate and fill with things mementos or anything that brings them joy, whether it's memories of the past or something that gives them hope thinking about the future.

"Our hope is that those create one or just  take the idea home. I hope they remember when there are times in their lives that are hard or bring them distress that this can bring them hope and this can be a mechanism. Hopefully the box serves as a reminder they have things in their lives that bring them positivity and joy," says Elisa Barron, a social worker at the El Paso VA.

"Remember that every individual is succeptible to crisis.  No one is protected from rough times. My advice is try to remember that," says Barron. "We can all eperience and it's ok to not be ok and reach out to help."

The El Paso VA system is holding its first ever motorcycle ride for Veteran Suicide Prevention tomorrow (Saturday, September 12th) from 9 am to 4 pm with several stops. It will come to an end at the VA Wellness Center for a services resource fair. Everyone is welcome, even if your'e not a veteran. You do not have to participate in the motorcycle run to show up to the musical performances and resource fair! For more information, call (915)564-6100 ext 5353. You can also reach the El Paso VA Behavioral Health at (915)564-6159, from 8am-4:30 pm