Southern Arizona Veterans Health Update for Monday, April 13, 2026

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Southern Arizona Veterans Health Update for Monday, April 13, 2026


Announcement

VA Desert Pacific Healthcare Announces New Southern Arizona VA Health Care System Executive Director 

new SAVAHCS medical center director

The VISN 22 Interim Network Director is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Leslie T. Lockridge, DNP, RN, as the new Executive Director of the Southern Arizona VA Health Care System, effective April 5, 2026.

To read more, check out the news article VA Desert Pacific Healthcare Announces New Medical Center Executive Director on the Southern Arizona VA Health Care System website.


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Knowledge is power: Free online mental health courses

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Self-paced mental health tools Veterans can use anytime

Are you a Veteran facing common challenges like managing anger, insomnia or substance use? Discover VeteranTraining.va.gov, VA’s award-winning online mental health resource designed just for you. To learn more check out the article on VA News Knowledge is power: Free online mental health course


Grant Application is Now Open for the SSG Fox Suicide Prevention Grant Program

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Grant applications are now open for the SSG Fox Suicide Prevention Grant Program. If your community-based organization provides suicide prevention services to Veterans, see if you’re eligible. Applications close June 12: https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/ssgfox-grants/ 


local news

Women Veteran Tele-Town Hall 

women veteran tele town hall

Join us for our virtual Women Veteran Tele-Town Hall on Thursday, April 16, 2026 from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

This invitation is open to all Women Veterans receiving care at the Southern Arizona VA Health Care System.

During the event, we will share the latest updates on Pelvic Health Services and address your questions.

The event will be streamed live at https://www.facebook.com/VATucson. Additionally, you can visit access.live/womenshealth or dial in at 833-380-0738 on Thursday, April 16, 2026 starting at 5:00 p.m. 


We Rise Together Against Domestic Violence 

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Join us for the We Rise Together Against Domestic Violence Conference on Friday, April 17 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Desert Diamond Casino and Hotel Conference Center located at 7350 South Nogales Hwy. Tucson, AZ 85756. 

The conference is a valuable opportunity to connect, learn and grow as a community committed to safety and empowerment. Space is limited to 100 participants. Please scan the QR Code above or the Event Bright We Rise Together Registration link to sign up for the event. 

For more information on the event, please reach out to Jennifer Kirk at 520-308-2337 or Patty Valera 520-345-3533. 


Smile Stones 

smile stones

You are invited to create Smile Stones at a special rock painting event for Veterans in the Auditorium located in Building 4 at the Tucson VA Medical Center on Thursday, May 14, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

No experience is needed, and all materials will be provided—just bring your creativity and enjoy a relaxing, fun-filled break with your fellow Veterans.


Veteran Health Fair 

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Join us in the Rose Garden Courtyard at the Tucson VA Medical Center on Monday, May 18, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. to explore the many healthcare services SAVAHCS offers — all designed to help Veterans live stronger, healthier lives.


Veterans Mental Health Council

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Are you interested in improving the Mental Health services for Veterans at the Southern Arizona VA Health Care System? If so, the Veterans Mental Health Council mission is to improve VA Mental Health services. The council meets virtually/in-person the first Wednesday of the month at 1:00 p.m. 

For more information, you can contact the Council Liaison at TucsonVeteranMentalHealthAdvisoryCouncil@va.gov


community events

Arizona Trail Association Veterans Trail Work Volunteer Events

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Veterans, did you know that the Arizona Trail Association offers trail work volunteer events that are designed for Veterans who want to improve the Arizona National Scenic Trail while spending time outdoors with their fellow Veterans. For more information check out https://aztrail.org/events-schedule/ or contact Michael "Chappy" Chappell at chappy@aztrail.org or call 970-779-5740.  


Veterans Hiring Event 

Veteans hiring event

There will be a Veterans Hiring Event at the El Pueblo Activity Center located at 101 W. Irvington Rd. Tucson, AZ 85714 on April 23 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.  

There will be several employers represented at the event.

To register scan the QR Code or click on the Veterans Hiring Event registration link.

For more information or have questions email veterans@azdoa.gov


DISCLAIMER: THE SHARING OF ANY NON-VA INFORMATION DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN ENDORSEMENT OF PRODUCTS OR SERVICES ON THE PART OF THE VA.


Resources

VA Resource Navigator 

VA Resource Guide

Are you a Veteran but you're not sure where to start with the VA?

Check out the VA Resource Navigator, a short, sweet combination of the most valuable resources to get you started on your way to VA benefits and health care.


VA is here for you

1-800-MyVA411 (800-698-2411) is always the right number. 

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www.youtube.com/@VATucson

www.facebook.com/VATucson

https://x.com/TucsonVA

www.instagram.com/vatucson/

www.va.gov/southern-arizona-health-care/