Library gun lock distribution takes aim at veteran suicide
Veterans
Content added March 10, 2025
All branches of Daniel Boone Regional Library now offer free gun locks — no questions asked, no library card required. The locks can be requested at the front desk of each branch.
Truman Veterans’ Hospital provides the cable gun locks. In addition to promoting general weapon safety, the locks are part of the hospital’s program to prevent and reduce the risk of veteran suicide. The hospital continues to supply the locks to the library as needed.
Printed on each gun lock is the logo and contact for the Veterans Crisis Line, a crisis hotline for veterans and their loved ones. The locks also come with instructions on how to use them, two keys and information on recognizing the signs of suicide risk and the phone number for the Veterans Crisis Line.
Columbia Public Library
100 W. Broadway, Columbia, MO 65203
(573) 443-3161
Callaway County Public Library
710 Court St., Fulton, MO 65251
(573) 642-7261
Holts Summit Public Library
188 W. Simon Blvd., Holts Summit, MO 65043
(573) 606-8770
Southern Boone County Public Library
109 N. Main St., Ashland, MO 65010
(573) 657-7378
Show Me Home Program
Veterans
Content added Nov. 5, 2024
The Show Me Home Program is a new legal service being provided through the University of Missouri School of Law Veterans Legal Clinic. The Show Me Home Program will focus on Discharge upgrades, Character of Service upgrades, and Service Connection claims/appeals. Brochure.
If you learn of a Veteran who could benefit from the Show Me Home Program, please contact Eugene O’Loughlin at 573-882-2502, eugeneologhlin@missouri.edu, or Andy Rogers at 573-882-1572, alw394@missouri.edu, to be screened for eligibility.
Services for Independent Living
Content updated March 31, 2025
Empowers people with disabilities, seniors and veterans to maximize their independence in the community. Includes information, demonstrations, and presentations on assistive devices/technology, as well as technical assistance for a variety of accessibility needs.
Transportation
Service is door-to-door. Hours of operation are Monday-Friday, 8:30 am-4:00 pm except on observed holidays. All riders must be at least 18 years old.
To be eligible you must have a disability, be at least 55 years of age, or be a veteran. For veterans, SIL requires documentation prior to one’s first ride verifying they are a veteran. Spouses of veterans can also ride free and also requires prior documentation.
If you have not used SIL Transportation service before, please call us at (573) 874-1646.
A ride is $14 one way. Payment is expected at the time of pick up.
Rides are limited to within the Columbia city limits. Availability is limited, not every ride request can be fulfilled. Riders must be able to ride independently and load/unload any items in their possession. Individuals who cannot ride independently are responsible for bringing their own caregiver. Caregivers ride at no charge, but we do need to know if you will bring one with you.
1905 W Ash Street
Columbia, MO 65203
573-874-1646 ext. 217
Visit website
Welcome Home
Veterans only - shelter
Content updated May 10, 2024
Welcome Home provides 32 transitional housing rooms, with 34 beds, for homeless Veterans and families, including a separate corridor for female Veterans.
Their Rapid Rehousing Program includes intensive case management, financial planning, and connection to VA benefits and services and more.
The Welcome Home’s Veteran Employment Services Provides job readiness training, including resume and interview prep. Help is also provided to secure training opportunities and job placement assistance.
2120 Business Loop 70 E
Columbia, MO 65202
573-443-8001