Veterans Affairs Outreach Efforts

Operation Save-A-Vet, Save-A-Pet is a program dedicated to helping Franklin County veterans with service-connected disabilities lead happier, healthier and more productive lives. This program benefits the veteran, the dog and the community. Service dogs have proven to be highly valuable in assisting veterans with all types of disabilities, including, but not limited to, diabetes, seizure disorders, posttraumatic stress disorder and psychiatric disorders, stability and traumatic brain injury.

Operation Save-A-Vet, Save-A-Pet Brochure Foster Family Application (link to PDF SAV Foster Family Application) Save-A-Vet Application Bring Your Own Dog Application Foster Family Application

Operation Rucks to Reins provides a form of equine-assisted therapy that incorporates horses and horse care into a veteran’s therapy regimen. Rucks to Reins utilizes the expertise of Franklin County’s Penn State Extension staff to offer participants a three-component program that includes ground lessons, therapeutic riding and therapeutic driving and lets veterans develop a number of physical and relational skills in a non-threatening and motivational environment. Contact us for more information.

Operation Rucks to Reins Application

The goal of the Focus Photography Program is to provide veterans the opportunity to learn the basics of photography and use it as a form of self-expression. This program is open to all Franklin County veterans

Therapeutic photography is the name for photo-based activities that are self-initiated and conducted by oneself (or as part of an organized group or project), but where no formal therapy is taking place and no therapist or counselor needs to be involved. According to the American Art Therapy Association, art can help combat veterans by allowing them different avenues to express feelings and experiences that are difficult to express verbally. Art therapy has proven to be highly effective in treating the psychological disabilities many veterans face.

Due to the sometimes sensitive and personal nature of therapeutic photography, all participants will be expected to follow confidentiality and privacy guidelines.

Focus Photography Program Application

Franklin County MilitaryShare provides fresh, nutritious food once a month, free of charge, to Franklin County families with at least one member who has served, or is currently serving, in the armed forces. The program is made possible thanks to a partnership with the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank and the Franklin County Human Services Block Grant.

• Proof of military service is required to participate in this free program. PLEASE NOTE: Participation in other food assistance programs will not prohibit individuals and families from taking advantage of Franklin County MilitaryShare.
• Pre-registration is required to allow organizers to order the correct quantity of food for each distribution event. Extra food will not be available on distribution days.

To register, call 717-263-4326 or email veteransoutreach@franklincountypa.gov.

Franklin County MilitaryShare

Each year the Franklin County Commissioners, along with the Franklin County Office of Veterans Affairs, offer the Franklin County Veterans Affairs We Support You Scholarship. The scholarship program provides financial support to area veterans’ dependents. Eligible applicants are high school seniors residing in Franklin County who plan to pursue a course of study at an accredited higher learning institution and who are in need of financial assistance. Applicants must have a minimum 2.5 GPA and participate in both extracurricular and community service activities. Students must also complete the scholarship application and submit three letters of reference, including one from their high school guidance counselor, along with other documentation as noted by the application instructions.

The application window for the 2024 We Salute You Scholarship is now closed. Please check back later for the next round of scholarships.