Wasseem Bel, a 2010 graduate of Lahainaluna High School, recently received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Colorado at Boulder. Mom Sohani Bel noted, “He would not have been able to do this without the help of many people and organizations in the community. Our family wants to thank them all for their contributions to his success.”

LAHAINA – The Maui VA Community-Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC) received a Rural Health Grant to increase access and better serve veterans residing in East and West Maui.

Mental health and social work services are provided to veterans who prefer to receive these services in the Hana or Lahaina area.

As an extension clinic, members of the rural health clinic staff will provide mental health services, as well as assist and direct veterans to other eligible benefits and resources within the VA.

VA staff are available to assist eligible veterans with enrolling in the VA Pacific Islands Health Care System and answer questions about VA services.

The Rural Mental Health Team began providing services to West Maui veterans in March. Kahana Door of Faith Church at 4975 Lower Honoapiilani Road has partnered with the agency, allowing the use of its building every Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Waiola Church at 535 Wainee St. is also allowing the use of one of its offices on Thursdays and Fridays. West Maui clinics are open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on these days.

West Maui appointments can be made by contacting VA representatives at (808) 856-1222. Walk-ins are welcome.

The Rural Mental Health Team also began providing services to veterans of East Maui in December. Clinic hours are 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Monday at the offices of Hui No Ke Ola Pono at the Old Hana School/Hana Community Center. Appointments can be made by contacting the team at (808) 856-1222 or Terry Poaipuni from Hui No Ke Ola Pono at (808) 248-7502. Walk-ins are welcome.

At all of these new extension locations, veterans are invited to stop in, meet the team and let them know how they can assist you.