FLORIDA — Operation Safe Landing is expanding its work to help military members transitioning to civilian life in Florida, with leaders saying $500,000 in state funding will enable the program to support more veterans through services such as educational resources and financial assistance.

Florida Veterans Coalition President and CEO Robby Groover said the funding is expected to help the program serve at least 1,200 veterans a year, up from 700.

“The whole model is based around that individual’s transition from the military career to that now civilian career, and whether they’re three to six months out or they’re three to six years out, we are there to offer a service, a resource to guide them through that entire process,” Groover said.

Groover said Florida is the third most popular state for veterans transitioning to civilian life, and many need help to navigate that process. He also said the state funding allowed the organization to add eight full-time staff members to work with veterans.

Charisse Mellison, an Army Reserve veteran, joined the military at 17 years old. She said she faced challenges during her service and did not initially believe she qualified for veterans benefits.

“It wasn’t until I found myself in the Tampa Bay area and homeless, just on my own in complete isolation, that I was made aware of, ‘Hey, girl, you actually are entitled to something because you signed that line,’” Mellison said.

Luca Lauro, an Air Force veteran, served for seven years before retiring in May. He said his time in the military was fulfilling, but he has struggled to find employment after leaving the service.

“You move bases, you have a job lined up,” Lauro said. “To now, oh no, it’s real life now, it’s on me. I’ve got to find something to be able to support myself and my family.”

Mellison said connecting with the program helped her find stability.

“I have a place to stay. I have food to eat. And I just got a job yesterday,” Mellison said. “One week. All I had to do was find my people.”

Lauro said he hopes employers recognize what veterans can contribute.

“Give veterans a chance,” Lauro said. “There’s a lot of good that we bring.”