The Department of Veterans Affairs is responsible for providing federal benefits to veterans and their families throughout the United States. The department provides treatment and diagnostic services for veterans suffering from spinal cord injuries and HIV/AIDS. It operates a variety of benefits and disability compensation programs. The Department of Veterans Affairs crisis counseling over telephone 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The Department of Veterans Affairs also operates various business and vocational training programs. It has been in operation since 1989 and administers several educational programs. In addition, the Department of Veterans Affairs conducts burial benefits programs and offers financial assistance services.