In northwestern Pennsylvania, more than 21,000 veterans get care and help from the Erie VA Medical Center.

Its reach extends into several counties. For some, it's a lifeline.

"Our purpose is very clear: Taking care of those who fought for our freedom," said John Gennaro, director of the Erie VA Medical Center.

He is not a veteran but has worked with veterans for more than 20 years.

"Any serviceman or woman is welcome to come to our facility," said Gennaro. "We'll check out and go personally with them through their eligibility and criteria."

A myth is you have to be in combat to get care, but that's not true. Veterans in need are encouraged to reach out to get services ranging from primary care to outpatient services and inpatient acute care.

"I got to a point in my career that I felt a need to help my fellow veterans," said James Hertner, a Navy and Marine Corps veteran.

He got emotional when talking about his call to the Erie VA. 

"I think a lot of veterans, you get out of the military you forget about it and move on with your life," said Hertner.

He started coming to the Erie VA about 15 years ago and got involved with the center's behavioral health council, a volunteer group of veterans who help veterans.

Nancy Newark moved to Erie specifically for help with her health.

"The mental health here is the best in the country in my experience," said Newark. "I have a unique experience having been an employee and a patient."

She's retired from the military and from working at other VA Medical Centers in the U.S.

Help inside comes in many forms.

"It's not about coming in and being told that you have a substance abuse problem," said Newark. "It's about giving yourself a voice, giving whatever inside you that's making you angry or hurt a voice. Maybe you just need to speak to somebody."

The Erie VA's campus is expanding. Nearly $50 million is being spent on construction projects unfolding over the next three years.

Work is being done on the community living section of the Erie VAMC as part of the modernization of the campus. A canopy will be built to connect them right to the main facility.