Before the sharp rise in real estate prices in late 2020, Central Colorado was a favorite spot for veterans of the United States armed services to relocate to. The solitude of the rural and mountainous environment was a draw for many who, with some benefits from the Federal Government, could make ends meet despite the lack of employment opportunities. But as the cost of everything continues to rise, the pressure on veterans already living here has steadily increased, and the isolation of many makes it hard for them to connect with others for help when dealing with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The importance of veteran services has been steadily increasing over the past decade, and Custer County has worked diligently over the years…