FAIRHOPE, Ala. (WALA) – The American Legion Post in Fairhope is stepping up for veterans and their families with a special event focused on mental health and community resources.

On Saturday from 10am to 3pm, they are hosting their first Veterans Suicide Prevention Resource Fair on South Mobile Street. It is open to all.

The goal of the fair is to raise awareness of the struggles many veterans face, especially with mental health issues like PTSD.

“Unfortunately, nationally, we lose 22 veterans a day to suicide, and we need to start a conversation with the community and people around us to bring more awareness and resources to veterans,” said Carla Biniecki. “Most of the veterans don’t know what’s in their backyard, and we want to show them what’s in their backyard so they can have these sources for themselves and their families.”

The event will feature a range of resources and support services, from mental health providers to career placement services, legal aid and even representatives from veteran-owned businesses.

“We have the VA with us,” adds Biniecki. “They’re taking part with local businesses as well as other people in the community and it’s the first time most of them have done anything like this before and I’m hoping other resources will come together to support each other. each other so they can do a much better job of reaching out to the community.”

Anyone unable to attend the fair can contact the station at 251-928-9132.

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