newjerseynewsroom.com

We need proactive programs and legislation to combat this growing problem among our heroes returning home from active duty.

No one can argue with the moral obligation our country has to protect our veterans when their active duty concludes. We can’t simply brush under the rug the problems they face when returning home. Along with ensuring there is access to adequate health care, we need to give them the tools needed to secure employment and provide for their families.

Anything short of that is unacceptable.

I hope Senator Gillibrand’s legislation will get the ball rolling on putting our veterans to work when they return home from their service abroad, in careers in which they can be proud.

Dorothy Nicholson founded Bright Star in 2008 with a singular goal in mind: provide training and jobs for the brave men and women who served our country, and for those who have had setbacks who are trying to make a better life for themselves and their children. Bright Star works with federal and local agencies including the United States Department of Veteran Affairs, Veterans Industries, United Way of Hudson County, Catholic Charities of Newark, Eva's Village and the Hoboken Homeless Shelter to train and employ veterans in the tri-state area.