Gov. Gavin Newsom formally proclaimed Monday as Veterans Day in California, which came with a major announcement.

The California Department of Veterans Affairs has awarded $33 million in grants to seven counties through the California Veterans Health Initiative. The grants will go to preexisting community organizations that provide mental health support for veterans and their families. Newsom also announced 100,000 free mental health appointments for veterans, and a federal grant funding through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs that will go toward Native American veterans’ mental health and suicide prevention.

“California’s veterans have dedicated their lives to protecting our country, and it is our duty — and our honor — to ensure that we provide for them and their families when they return home,” Newsom said in a statement Sunday.

“These investments will help us expand access to and develop even more lifesaving supports for all our veterans.”

“Focusing on veterans’ mental health has always been a key priority at CalVet, and we’re pleased to partner with community-based providers statewide to expand the reach and effectiveness of resources for veterans seeking no cost, accessible mental health services in their own communities,” said Lindsey Sin, CalVet secretary.

In his formal proclamation, Newsom highlighted the struggle that many veterans have with their mental health.

“Roughly 1.5 million veterans call California home, represented in every facet of our society,” he said. “Many suffer the physical and emotional scars of war and service. California is committed to supporting our veterans.”

In September, the governor signed a package of bills that will support veterans, including access to housing and education.

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