White River Junction — Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender veterans are invited to a get-together Tuesday evening.

The event, sponsored by White River Junction VA Medical Center, is set for 5-8 p.m. at Tip Top Pottery, 85 N. Main St. It recognizes LGBT Health Awareness month at the VA.

Participants can select a pre-finished pottery item to paint, which will be glazed, fired and finished for them to take home. The items start at $4. Admission is free.

More than 1 million veterans identify as LGBT, according to a news release from the medical center. And sexual orientation and gender identity matter in health care.

LGBT people are affected by health disparities related to the stress of stigma and discrimination, the release said. On average, LGBT people have higher rates of cancer, HIV and mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety and PTSD.

Social isolation is also more common among LGBT people, so connecting with others is an important wellness factor, the release said. In order to receive the best care possible, LGBT veterans should talk with their VA doctors, “so they can provide the individualized care you deserve.”

For more information, contact Calvin Smith, the medical center’s LGBT veteran care coordinator, at Calvin.Smith@va.gov.

— Staff report