We’re here to help—no matter where you are on your journey.
At Swords to Plowshares, we're committed to providing comprehensive, direct support to all veterans living in the San Francisco Bay Area - regardless of discharge status or VA eligibility. If you served in the U.S. military and call the Bay Area home, you can access our free services.
Each program has its own eligibility requirements, but all you need to get started is proof of service (a DD-214) - and if you don't have it, we can help you get it!
Whether we meet you or you find us, we can help you access necessary resources and refer you to wraparound services.
Obtain or replace identity documents and access a physical mailing address.
Assistance applying for Supplemental Security Income and Social Security Disability Insurance.
Access Swords’ wraparound services and referrals to community programs.
Our goal is to prevent veteran homelessness. We offer a variety of housing programs to help you find and maintain stable housing.
Access short-term housing when in crisis.
Find and secure stable, long-term housing.
Receive help with move-in costs, rent, and utilities.
Navigating the legal system can be challenging. Our team of attorneys is here to help you with veteran-specific issues.
Assistance upgrading your military discharge status.
Help filing or appealing VA disability and benefits claims.
Access free legal resources at your own pace.
Military service causes visible and invisible wounds. We provide health services and community programs to support your well-being.
Access in-person and telehealth therapy, assessments, and alternative therapies.
Join support groups and social events.
Get routine health screenings and wellness education.
Enjoy a hot meal with fellow veterans.
Drop in for peer support, resources, and a welcoming space to connect.
Our jobs program provides the tools and resources you need to succeed in the workforce.
Receive guidance and job search support.
Enroll in skills training for career readiness.
Secure stable, living-wage employment.
Getting the support you need is easy. If you're a veteran in the San Francisco Bay Area, start here:
A staff member will reach out to you to gather more information and conduct a needs assessment.
Visit one of our Veterans Centers in San Francisco or Oakland to access care.
Whether conducted over the phone, through email, or in person - a team member will enroll you in the right program to meet your needs.
Find answers about our services, support options, and how we can help you today.
We serve veterans living in the San Francisco Bay Area, regardless of discharge status or VA eligibility. Each program has its own requirements, but most begin with proof of service (like a DD-214). If you don’t have it, we can help you get it.
Yes. You do not need an honorable discharge to access services at Swords to Plowshares. We support veterans of all discharge types.
Even if you were discharged under other-than-honorable or bad conduct status, you may still be eligible for help. We can also assist with discharge upgrades and explore what benefits or programs you may qualify for.
You served—you deserve support. Reach out and we’ll help you get started.
The quickest way is to reach out directly to your case manager. If you’re unable to reach them, you can fill out our contact form and we’ll make sure your message gets to the right team.
No. Our legal services are focused specifically on veteran-related matters, such as discharge upgrades, VA benefits eligibility, service-connected claims, pension applications, and VA overpayment issues.
We do not provide assistance with divorce, child custody, criminal defense, landlord-tenant disputes, or other non-VA-related legal matters. If you need help in these areas, we can try to connect you with outside legal resources.
Our programs are designed specifically to serve veterans themselves. While we understand that family members and dependents play a critical role in a veteran’s life, we do not provide direct services to spouses, children, or other relatives.
However, if you're supporting a veteran or helping them access services, you're welcome to reach out on their behalf or assist them in completing our intake process.
Whether you're a veteran seeking support or a provider referring someone, this form is the first step in getting connected to our programs.
Please complete this form to help us understand your needs and connect you or the veteran you’re referring to the right services.
If you’re a current client, we recommend reaching out to your case manager. If you have a question, you can also complete this form.
Comprehensive guides - written by our staff attorneys - to help you navigate VA and Department of Defense legal issues
A map of essential hotlines and resources for veterans in the San Francisco Bay Area
National legal services providers who can help you apply for a military discharge upgrade