New Site Launches to Help Tennessee Veterans Find Support
From the May 19, 2026 e-EditionNASHVILLE (May 14) — Tennessee Governor Bill Lee and Tennessee Department of Veterans Services (TDVS) Commissioner Tommy Baker announced the launch of the Veterans Connect Portal, a new statewide resource designed to make it easier for service members, veterans and their families to access the support they’ve earned.
Tennessee is home to more than 430,000 veterans, supported by a strong network of state
agencies, local partners and community organizations. The Veterans Connect Portal builds on that foundation by bringing these resources together, giving veterans and their families a simpler, more direct way to find help and get connected.
“As we recognize Armed Forces Day, we’re reminded that the freedoms we enjoy are made possible by the brave men and women who have faithfully served, and continue to serve, our country,” said Governor Lee. “Tennessee is committed to honoring that service, not just in words, but in action, and Veterans Connect builds on that commitment by making it easier for service members, veterans and their families to access support across our state.”
The Veterans Connect Portal provides a single, trusted place where users can search for services, connect with verified providers and access support across employment, healthcare, housing, education and community programs, no matter where they live in Tennessee.
The platform also strengthens coordination across the state by equipping Veteran Service
Organizations, local governments and agency partners with tools to better connect individuals to
services and follow through on those connections.
“We’re reminded that the freedoms we enjoy are made possible by the dedication and sacrifice of the men and women who have served and continue to serve our nation.” said Commissioner
Baker, “Our state remains committed to supporting that service, not only through recognition, but through meaningful action. The Veterans Coordination Platform strengthens that commitment by creating a streamlined, centralized way for service members, veterans and their families to connect with the resources and support they deserve.
“By bringing services together in one place, Veterans Connect represents the next step in the Volunteer State’s ongoing commitment to serving veterans and their families across all 95 counties."
Veterans Connect is now available at https://tnveteransconnect.tn.gov/.
In the e-Edition
McKenzie Banner May 19, 2026
May 19, 2026 · Read the full issue →
Related Stories

Huntingdon Town Council to Consider Contract for Tennis/Pickleball Courts
HUNTINGDON — Huntingdon is set to significantly enhance its recreational offerings with the approval of a grant application for a new tennis and pickleball complex. In March, the town council authorized the submission of the 2026 Local Parks and Recreation Fund (LPRF) grant…
Aug 25, 2026

Long Heights Baptist Church Pays Off Mortgage
McKENZIE (August 24) — Long Heights Baptist Church in McKenzie has paid off its mortgage. The church celebrated the occasion with a note-burning ceremony Sunday morning, concluded with four baptisms.
Aug 24, 2026

Fun at the Sweet Tea Festival
McKENZIE (August 22) — The Sweet Tea Festival rocked downtown McKenzie over the weekend, with vendors and entertainers taking over Banner Row, Broadway Street and parts of Main Street and Cedar Street.
Aug 24, 2026
USPS Drafts Policy for Mail-in Ballots
WASHINGTON (August 2026) — A federal rule overhaul by the United States Postal Service could radically change how mail-in ballots are processed in federal elections, assuming it survives an ongoing firestorm in federal court.
Aug 24, 2026
