Veteran's Services in San Francisco

Veterans in San Francisco have access to a multitude of free and low-cost services, from a well-equipped VA hospital in the city to numerous forms of counseling and vocational programs. Let's take a look at what the city has to offer military veterans.

The San Francisco VA Medical Center deserves first mention for the sheer number of veterans it serves every day of the year. San Francisco's VA Hospital is a full-service facility providing primary and specialty medical care, along with case management, mental health services and an OEF/OIF clinic. All veterans who have not been dishonorably discharged are eligible for free and low-cost care depending on their particular circumstances. The VA Medical Center is located at 4150 Clement Street, which is up near the northwest corner of the city (and overlooks the ocean with some beautiful views.) It is most easily reached via the 38 or 38L MUNI bus, which can be caught on Geary Street in downtown San Francisco.

For veterans experiencing homelessness, the VA Downtown Clinic on Third Street should be a first stop. Open Monday through Friday for drop-in from 8:00 a.m. to noon, and 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. for appointments, in-house primary care medical services can be accessed here, as well as mental health services, counselling, referrals to shelters and transitional housing, workshops and informational classes. Homeless veterans can also drop in to take showers here, do laundry (first come first served until noon), use the restroom and usually get free coffee in the mornings.

Swords to Plowshares is an independent not-for-profit group that provides many similar services to homeless veterans. They offer referrals to shelters and transitional housing, and operate three different transitional housing programs themselves within the city. Case management is also provided on site as well as legal help from volunteers, benefits advocacy, and an on-site employment training program. Call 415-285-4708 or visit 1060 Howard Street between 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays for more information.

The Vet Center for Readjustment Counseling offers information and referrals on veterans benefits, PTSD support and counseling for a wide range of issues. It is located at 505 Polk Street, not far up from City Hall.

The City College of San Francisco has a special counseling branch devoted to veterans seeking to further their education or obtain vocational training. Please visit this website for further information on educational entitlements and veterans services.

Further information on educational, housing and other benefits can be obtained from the County Veterans Service Office, which is located at 875 Stevenson Street #250. Their phone number is 415-554-7100.