BOISE -- There's new hope and support for veterans in southwest Idaho and eastern Oregon.
The VA in Boise is set to open a new residential center to help veterans battling substance abuse and post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
The new Transformation Recovery Center is located at the Boise VA Medical Center on Fort Street. It's scheduled to open Monday to offer veterans the best recovery possible.
What's different about this recovery center -- it's a residential program -- offering veterans a home-like environment while receiving treatment for substance abuse, PTSD or trauma-related treatment issues.
"So it'll give them a chance to recover in a safe environment. Strength-based perspective. Really looking to engage veterans and treat them well," said Tom Hogan, Director of Transformation Recovery Center.
There are 18 beds, along with an exercise room and lounging areas. Veterans will receive recovery treatment while in a comfortable living environment.
"This is a brand new building that we designed a year-and-a-half ago, two years ago. It's been through the process of being built. So veterans have been involved in every step of the way," said Hogan.
The Veterans Administration estimates PTSD afflicts almost 31 percent of Vietnam veterans, 10 percent of Gulf War veterans, 11 percent of veterans from the war in Afghanistan and 20 percent of Iraqi war veterans.
And when it comes to substance abuse -- it's estimated about one in ten returning soldiers seen in by the VA has a problem with alcohol or other drugs.
"I think there's a great need for veterans, for treatment with addiction and trauma. The VA can do a lot, this building will be able to help a lot with residential care, but it's really a community issue and just trying to support people," said Hogan.
The new Transformation Recovery Center will treat veterans all across southern Idaho and eastern Oregon.
