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The Secretary of Veterans Affairs, Denis R. McDonough, visited Asheville, Oct. 10, to support the VA staff who are helping Veterans recover from the impact of Hurricane Helene. Upon his

arrival, Secretary McDonough stopped at the Western North Carolina Agricultural Center to express solidarity with and support for displaced Veterans. The Western North Carolina VA Healthcare

System (WNCVAHCS) had deployed teams to local emergency shelters to meet the needs of displaced Veterans. These teams included professionals specializing in social work, homeless programs,

pharmacy, and mental health. Following this engagement, McDonough visited the Charles George VA Medical Center, where he spoke with numerous VA employees to show his appreciation for their

contributions to the emergency response efforts. He said, "I admire that you are doing these amazing things for our Veterans, even as you are wrestling with the same devastation as

everyone else." Secretary McDonough also praised the VA staff for their volunteer efforts, both in helping Veterans and supporting each other. "I saw the employee donation center,

and it is so awesome—what a great manifestation of all of you taking care of each other," he added. For Veterans who need information about how to access their VA care or services, we

encourage them to call 1-800-MYVA411 or visit VA’s new disaster resource page, www.VA.gov/resources/disaster-help at any time—we are here to help. The WNCVAHCS continues to accept donations

for veterans and VA employees. For coordination, please contact the Center for Development and Civic Engagement at 828-299-2514.  During his visit, McDonough participated in media

engagements to update the community on the current operational status of the WNCVAHCS and took the opportunity to deliver words of encouragement to veterans. Before departing, he spoke with

FEMA personnel on-site, thanking them for their ongoing contributions to the emergency response. "On behalf of the WNCVAHCS, thank you Secretary of Veterans Affairs for visiting the

team in Asheville," said Executive Director Stephanie Young. "Your visit boosted morale, and we will remain strong to serve our Veterans."