Veterans from San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties and their family members can learn about health care benefits and meet with local employers at an Aug. 2 open house in Santa Maria.

The get-together, sponsored by VA Greater Los Angeles Health Care System, will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Community-based Outpatients Clinic, 1550 East Main St.

This is the third year the organization is holding the event in Santa Maria.

“The open house is a one-stop shop for veterans,” said outreach coordinator Charles Green. “It’s a win-win for the veterans: They have the opportunity to enroll in health care, meet with potential employers and receive information about VA programs.”

A job resource fair is new this year, and Target, Vandenberg Air Force Base, Okonite and other employers will be on hand.

“The economy is not doing so well and this is an opportunity for veterans to come … and learn about employment,” Green said.

In addition, Green said, VA physicians, nurses and social workers will meet with eligible veterans to discuss their health-care needs.

Others who will participate include VA family caregivers, as well as personnel knowledgeable about the patient education resource center, weight loss programs and veterans’ benefits.

For more information visit www.losangeles.va.gov or call Green at (424) 645–9865.