The National Veterans Foundation (NVF) was founded in 1985 to help veterans streamline the process of accessing help for the myriad of needs they face, and to help broaden public understanding of these needs--including crisis/PTSD counseling, medical treatment, legal aid, VA benefits assistance, food, shelter, education, employment training, homelessness services, and substance abuse treatment. The NVF operates the Nation's only live, toll-free crisis management, information, and referral helpline (1-888-777-4443; vetsupport@nvf.org) for all veterans and their families; coordinates Public Awareness Programs designed to increase awareness and understanding about the effects of war and human needs of Americas veterans; and conducts ongoing outreach programs that provide veterans and families in need with food, clothing, transportation, employment, and other essential resources.