Set on a hill overlooking the picturesque village of Barboursville, the West Virginia State Veterans Home boasts a rich history.
The facility marks the site of an 1861 Civil War battle between the Wayne and Cabell County militia and the 2nd Kentucky Infantry. The site was later home to Morris Harvey College before the college relocated to Charleston in 1935.
Those buildings vacated by the college were used as a state hospital for a few years before finding another use. Authorized by the West Virginia State Legislature, the West Virginia State Veterans Home opened its doors in 1981 to its first tenants. The 125-bed facility provides safe and affordable housing to the brave men and women who served our country honorably.
At this facility, the health of residents is a top priority. Residents have access to a fully staffed, round-the-clock nursing station and a primary care physician. They also receive three nutritious meals a day, served in the cafeteria or provided as a boxed meal. Qualified staff attend to housekeeping and maintenance needs.
Mental well-being is equally important here. Social workers meet with veterans one-on-one to offer support and help them achieve their goals. Recreation staff are on hand to encourage them to participate in the local community. The facility offers amenities that include a well-provisioned library, computer lab, and several lounges for social interaction. Visitors are welcome and encouraged.
Success Story
Chris Atha arrived at the facility from the VA through their alcohol treatment program. He was also dealing with physical challenges as a result of a recent surgery. He credits his success and recovery to the assistance he has received there.
The Veterans Home set him up with a physical therapist to help him learn to walk again. While he was recuperating, they also gave him some office work to help keep his mind occupied.
“It gives you something to focus on,” Atha said, adding that at the same time he was taking classes on how to run an office.
He admits the process wasn’t always easy, but he added that even when he became frustrated, the staff was always there to offer assistance and encouragement.
“I never felt rushed, I never felt like I had pressure on me to get things done. People were there every day to help me.”
In fact, Atha was able to obtain employment through the state because of the classes he took at the Veterans Home.
He’s grateful for the assistance he has received there, from ongoing access to health and educational resources to moral support offered by caring staff members.
“I like it here,” he said. “It’s become a home. It’s my home.”
Learn More
Assistance with residency applications can be obtained through any of the West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance Benefits Offices, or you may contact the Veterans Home directly. For more information about eligibility requirements, click here.
Donations are also welcome year-round. Contact the West Virginia State Veterans Home at (304) 736-1027 to learn more about how to donate.
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