East Mountains Veterans Services Fair Set for Sept. 9 in Tijeras

TIJERAS, N.M. — Military veterans and their families in the East Mountains will have direct access to state and federal resource providers next month during a specialized assistance fair in Tijeras.

The East Mountains Veterans Services Fair is scheduled for Wednesday, Sept. 9, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Village of Tijeras Council Chambers, located at 12 Camino Municipal.

Hosted by New Mexico House District 22 Rep. Stefani Lord, the event is designed to connect area veterans with one-on-one guidance and on-site applications for earned benefits and services.

“We have a responsibility to support the individuals who have protected our nation,” Lord said. “By bringing this fair to the East Mountains, we are delivering important, direct, face-to-face assistance closer to home, ensuring our veterans and their families have easy access to the care they have earned. We would also like to recognize and thank the Village of Tijeras for providing the venue for this important event.”

Representatives scheduled to attend include officials from the New Mexico Department of Veterans Services, New Mexico Veterans Affairs, New Mexico Veterans Integration Centers, and Paws & Stripes.

Attendees will be able to obtain free lifetime New Mexico State Parks and camping passes and receive direct assistance with a wide range of programs, including:

• Healthcare enrollment and mental health services
• Property tax exemptions and waivers
• Disability claims guidance
• Veteran Service Dog programs and individual therapy
• Veteran specialty license plates
• Surviving spouse and burial benefits
• Education benefits and food assistance
• Small business mentorship and entrepreneurial advocacy

Organizers advise veterans and family members attending the fair to bring key documentation to facilitate on-site claims and processing, including a DD-214 or equivalent discharge document, a Department of Veterans Affairs award letter (if applicable), and proof of New Mexico residency, such as a driver’s license. Surviving spouses seeking benefits should bring marriage and death certificates.

For additional information regarding the event, contact Charlene Smith by email at charlene.smith@nmlegis.gov or by phone at (505) 944-5622.