Page 29 - Bristol Magazine Spring 2025

You can also reach them by email at americanlegion-
[email protected], and by phone at (860) 384-
5626.

Parks Honoring Bristol’s Heroes
Both Bristol and Forestville are home to memorial parks
that honor the city’s heroes. Veterans Memorial Bou-
levard in Downtown Bristol is home to sixteen war me-
morials, and provides visitors with an opportunity for
a contemplative walk, with benches available through-
out. Quinlan Park (10 Broad Street, Forestville) includes
commemorative signage and also provides benches for
times of reflection.

Help for Veterans in Crisis
Ways to Show Your Support
Visit the Veterans Strong website to learn how you can
show your support for Bristol veterans:
VetStrongInc.org

Veterans Strong host a variety of fundraisers through-
out the year, ranging from bowling to band nights and
more. Find ongoing fundraisers listed on their website:
VetStrongInc.org/save-the-date At the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, they understand that
life's challenges can sometimes be difficult. Whether
Shop their Amazon wish list. All wish list purchases ship you're facing mental health struggles, emotional dis-
directly to the Veterans Strong office: tress, alcohol or drug use concerns, or just need some-
a.co/eaDtrYC one to talk to, their caring counselors are here for you.
You are not alone.
The American Legion Forestville Village Post 209
(335 Camp Street, Bristol) Using the 988 Lifeline is free. When you call, text, or
chat the 988 Lifeline, your conversation is confidential.
The 988 Lifeline provides you with judgment-free care.
Connecting with someone can help save your life. Dial
988 then Press 1.

Note: Veterans can still reach the Veterans Crisis Line with the
previous phone number—1-800-273-8255 and Press 1—by text
(838255), and through chat (VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat).

The resources included here are invaluable to our vet-
eran community. Please keep this information on hand
The American Legion Forestville Village Post 209 sup- and share it with those you know who may need it.
ports veterans and strengthens community through
service and dedication. Their mission is to promote Many thanks to those who have served, are serving
patriotism and honor, advocate for strong national se- now, and who plan to serve in the future.
curity, support veterans, service members, and their
families, destigmatize mental health support and end Special Thanks to Donna Dognin, Co-Founder and Executive
veteran suicide. Post 209 plays a big role in the commu- Director of Veterans Strong, for her time and contributions
nity, from holding blood drives to hosting special events to this article. Additional resources include The American
like a fishing derby. They mentor young people, and Legion Post 209 website, and the Bristol All Heart website
promote peace and goodwill as a means to safeguard at bristolallheart.com.
justice, freedom and democracy.

To learn about this American Legion Post, including
membership and upcoming events, visit their website
at AmericanLegionPost209.com, and like them on Veterans Strong
Facebook at Facebook.com/ALpost209. They’re also on
Instagram as ALpost209. Wish List

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