; and (ii) provide them information relating to the programs of, and benefits provided by, an appropriate veterans agency of a State; and (B) to connect veterans in crisis to resources that address their immediate needs. 5. Activities of the Solid Start program of the Department of Veterans Affairs (a) Required activities The Secretary of Veterans Affairs, in coordination with the Secretary of Defense, shall carry out the Solid Start program of the Department of Veterans Affairs by— (1) collecting up-to-date contact information during transition classes or separation counseling for all members of the Armed Forces who are separating from the Armed Forces, while explaining the existence and purpose of the Solid Start program; (2) calling each veteran, regardless of separation type or characterization of service, not less than twice within the first year after separation from the Armed Forces; (3) providing information about the Solid Start program on the website of the Department and in materials of the Department, especially transition booklets and other resources; (4) providing information described in section 4(2) and ensuring calls are truly tailored to the needs of each veteran’s unique situation by conducting quality assurance tests; and (5) prioritizing outreach to veterans who have accessed mental health resources prior to separation from the Armed Forces. (b) Authorized activities The Secretary of Veterans Affairs, in coordination with the Secretary of Defense, may carry out the Solid Start program by— (1) encouraging members of the Armed Forces who are transitioning to civilian life to authorize alternate points of contact who can be reached should the member be unavailable during the first year following the separation of the member from the Armed Forces; (2) following up missed phone calls with tailored mailings to ensure the veteran still receives similar information