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Biweekly Newsletter - August 7, 2026
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Message from Secretary Rothstein
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Every veteran deserves to be recognized and connected to the benefits and resources they have earned. Veteran screening helps make that possible.
At the Maryland Department of Veterans and Military Families, we are working with state partners to strengthen veteran identification and access to services. By working with Maryland’s Commitment to Veterans and through the Governor’s Challenge to Prevent Suicide Among Service Members, Veterans, and Their Families, we connect veterans with behavioral health resources. We have also expanded DVMF services at Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration branches, connecting veterans with accredited benefits specialists where they already receive state services. Local governments can build on these efforts by adding a veteran screening question to existing intake processes.
Next week, I will join state agency partners at the Maryland Association of Counties Summer Conference on a panel entitled: Serving Those Who Served: Smarter Screening for Stronger Veteran Support. We will discuss how local government can improve veteran screening, referrals, and access to services.
This summer, I also encourage everyone to make a Mid-Summer Buddy Check. Reach out to a veteran, service member, military family member, friend, or neighbor. A simple call, text, or conversation can help combat isolation and strengthen connections.
As always, I welcome your thoughts and ideas. Please reach out at secretary.dvmf@maryland.gov.
Life is good!
Sincerely,
Ed Rothstein
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DVMF Highlights
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On August 4, Charlotte Hall Veterans Home received a generous donation from the Sneade family of Calvert County, owners of ACE Hardware, made possible through customer round-up contributions during Memorial Day week. During the fundraiser, children visiting the stores also created heartfelt greeting cards to thank veterans for their service. Secretary Ed Rothstein presented the Sneade family with a proclamation.
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 On August 4, Secretary Ed Rothstein joined local veterans for the weekly Veterans Breakfast at Bulrushes Cafe in Prince Frederick. The gathering provides an opportunity for veterans to connect, share stories, and enjoy breakfast together.
On July 31, Deputy Secretary Dana Burl joined family, friends, and the veteran community in Frederick to celebrate the 100th birthday of World War II Navy Veteran Patrick L. Carpentier.
Mr. Carpentier served as a Communications Seaman First Class in the U.S. Navy in the Pacific Theater from 1944 to 1946. In recognition of his service and legacy, he received a Secretary's Proclamation and a DVMF challenge coin.
Congratulations on this remarkable milestone, Mr. Carpentier, and thank you for your service and sacrifice.
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Congratulations to Corrine Schuhart, Business Office Accounts Receivable and Resident Trust Fund Specialist, on being named Charlotte Hall Veterans Home's August Partner of the Month.
Charlotte Hall Veterans Home is Maryland's state-supported skilled nursing and assisted living facility for eligible veterans and their spouses. Thank you, Corrine, for your dedication to serving those who served.
Core Programs and Initiatives
Learn how our core programs and initiatives—work together to support veterans, service members, and military families across Maryland—from helping individuals access earned federal and state benefits through the Service and Benefits Program, to providing long-term care and memory support at Charlotte Hall Veterans Home, honoring service through our state veterans Cemetery and Memorial Program, expanding our Communications, Outreach, & Advocacy Program efforts statewide, and offering critical financial assistance through the Maryland Veterans Trust Fund when families need it most.
Donate to the Maryland Veterans Trust Fund
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Maryland Joins Forces News & Events
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Maryland Joins Forces' mission is to unite public and private partners to foster innovative solutions to challenges facing our military connected community. Through intentional collaboration, we empower veterans, service members, and their families with the support they deserve, building a community where no one is left behind. Visit Maryland Joins Forces.
Blue Star Families is conducting a 2026 Military Family Lifestyle Survey that is now open through August 9, 2026. The survey provides military-connected families with an opportunity to share their experiences, identify challenges, and highlight what's working. The results help inform programs, policies, and resources that strengthen support for military and veteran families nationwide.
The Maryland Chapter is working toward a goal of 800 survey responses, and every voice makes a difference. If you are a service member, veteran, military spouse, caregiver, or family member, we encourage you to complete the survey and share it with others in your network.
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Our Military Kids is partnering with Healthy Family Project to offer a free virtual summer cooking class featuring easy snack box and lunchbox ideas for busy families.
Registered dietitian Gisela Bouvier and her daughter, Sofia, share simple, nutritious recipes using ingredients from the Fueling Military Families campaign.
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On August 25, Hiring Our Heroes is hosting the Fort George G. Meade Career Summit at the McGill Training Center. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet, network, and interview with military-ready employers during a full day of professional development and a hiring fair. All veterans, service members, military spouses, and caregivers are invited to attend.
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State and Federal Resources
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The Maryland Higher Education Commission is accepting applications for the Student Loan Debt Relief Tax Credit through September 15, 2026. Eligible Maryland residents who file a 2026 state income tax return, have incurred at least $20,000 in student loan debt, currently owe at least $5,000, and are actively making loan payments are encouraged to apply. |
State Agencies
Community Leaders, Horse Industry, Business Community and More Praise Governor Moore Preakness Announcement-Office of Governor Wes Moore
State Park Day Use Area Admission Fee Waivers- Department of Natural Resources
How to Apply for Benefits- Department of Veterans and Military Families
Veteran Services - Workforce Development & Adult Learning- Department of Labor
Maryland’s Commitment to Veterans- Behavioral Health Administration
Expedited Processing for Veterans- Department of Education
Veterans Benefits Offices- Motor Vehicle Administration
Special Rates for Military-Connected Communities- Department of Natural Resources
Federal Agencies
NCA Cemetery Director Development Program- Department of Veterans Affairs
U.S. Small Business Administration’s Office of Veterans Business Development- Small Business Administration
U.S. Department of Veteran’s Affairs Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization-Department of Veterans Affairs
 Opening up about what you’re going through can make it easier to find support and prevent a crisis before it happens. Whenever you need to talk, the Veterans Crisis Line is here to listen. Dial 988 then Press 1, chat at http://VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat, or text 838255.
To stay informed about upcoming community events, resource fairs, and outreach activities, visit DVMF's events page. Information is updated regularly.
Is this your first edition of the DVMF newsletter? If so, welcome! You are receiving this newsletter because you signed up to receive it from our website or you gave permission to a DVMF program, the Motor Vehicle Administration or Department of Labor to receive information on VA benefits and resources. DVMF respects your privacy and does not share your email address. If you have questions about our Department, our Programs, or your VA benefits, please visit veterans.maryland.gov or call 410-260-3838.
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Newsletter Information Disclaimer
The Maryland Department of Veterans & Military Families does not endorse the organizations sponsoring these events, and we do not endorse the views they express or the products/services they offer. The views and opinions expressed in any referenced document do not necessarily state or reflect those of DVMF. The information provided is intended for your general knowledge only, and serves solely as a DVMF community outreach effort.
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