On a quiet Saturday, something special is happening over coffee in El Paso. Hospice El Paso’s Veteran Café is proving that sometimes the most powerful form of support doesn’t come from a clinic or an office, but from a shared table, a familiar story, and the simple act of being welcomed.

The pop-up café, sponsored by Hospice El Paso, is designed specifically for veterans from all branches of service. While it may look like a casual coffee gathering on the surface, its purpose runs much deeper. The café offers veterans a place to connect, talk, laugh, and support one another in a low-pressure environment where no one is expected to have the right words or any answers at all.

Natalie Eckberg, Vice President of Philanthropy and Community Engagement at Hospice El Paso, says the goal is to make sure veterans feel valued and aware of the resources available to them, especially when it comes to mental and physical health. Just as important, she says, is removing the stigma around asking for help.

“One of the beautiful things about this café is it puts them all in one group and allows them to access support in a way that’s low pressure,” Eckberg shared with KVIA7.

Veterans often experience deep loneliness after leaving military service, a loss of camaraderie and shared purpose that can impact mental health. That isolation can increase the risk of depression, PTSD, substance abuse, and even suicidal thoughts. The Veteran Café exists to push back against that isolation and replace it with connection.

ABC-7 spoke with Navy Vietnam veteran Gilbert Blancas, who recently lost his wife. Walking through the café doors wasn’t easy at first, but seeing familiar faces made all the difference.

“At first I was a little afraid of coming in the door,” Blancas said. “But when I came in and saw all my friends, this became my support line. It helps through the grieving process.”

Along with conversation and companionship, Hospice El Paso brings in regular presenters to share information about services available to veterans, ensuring help is always within reach.

Hospice El Paso’s Veteran Café meets on the second Saturday of every month, and all veterans are welcome. It’s a reminder that no one has to carry the weight alone, and that community, compassion, and a warm cup of coffee can go a long way.

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