The Canteen is open
Coffee and refreshments — the same kind of canteen corner veterans have always gathered around.
For veterans & their families
Veterans Canteen — Coffee & Kabitz
A gathering for veterans of every branch and era. It is interactive by design — conversation, not a meeting you sit through. We meet at the Senior Center on the 1st and 3rd Friday of every month. Call us at (860) 774-1243 for the current time and this month's topic.
What a gathering is like
Coffee Kabitz
Open conversation. Talk about what's on your mind — service days, current events, family, whatever comes up.
Guided discussion
Each gathering has a topic to get things going — but the room steers the conversation, not a lecture.
Trips & special visits
Beyond the coffee, the group gets out and brings speakers in. A few examples:
Deep sea fishing trip
The group went deep sea fishing last year — a full day on the water together.
November: trip to the Submarine School
A field trip to the Submarine School at the Navy base in Groton — including getting into the fire department training aboard a sub — plus a visit from a representative from Congressman Joe Courtney's Norwich office.
Want in on the next trip? Call (860) 774-1243 — spots are announced at the Friday gatherings first.
VA benefits
Many veterans and their spouses qualify for benefits they never claimed. Start here:
Putnam Elks — veterans programs
The Putnam Elks offer a lot of information and support for veterans: their veterans programs page. One thing to know: that information is only available if you are an Elk. If you'd like to join, call the center at (860) 774-1243 and we can point you in the right direction.
Come sit down with us
The coffee's on. Call the center for the time and this month's topic — Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM.