Governor Newsom appointed Amy Fairweather, director of policy at Swords, to the California Behavioral Health Services Oversight and Accountability Commission. In this role, Amy ensures veterans - who often rely on county-level systems for mental healthcare - are part of the conversation when it comes to statewide mental health resources and policy.

Swords joined fellow veteran services organizations to educate state legislators on the current issues facing California veterans and advocated for sustained investments to end homelessness among veterans.

Mo Siedor, director of legal services at Swords, represented our work and the veterans we serve before the U.S. House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, providing insight during a roundtable discussing the specific experiences and needs of veterans involved in the justice system. During the session, Mo pointed out that the challenges veterans face accessing VA care while incarcerated are similar to those of homeless veterans: “We shouldn't wait for them to be released to pay attention to their needs.”

Swords’ annual Veterans Day Celebration brought together veterans, their strongest supporters, and community leaders for a night celebrating the veterans we serve and our mission ahead. We were thrilled to hear remarks from SF Mayor Daniel Lurie and Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi, who emphasized their commitment to serving those who served.

Swords contributed an amicus brief to the U.S. Supreme Court in the case of Siples vs. Collins, supporting a veteran in his fight to help himself and others receive the benefits they deserve. If the case passes in the veteran’s favor, it will set a precedent that redefines a VA standard and fixes real errors that unfairly deny veterans the benefits they need to access lifesaving healthcare and income.