Mainstreet Daily News
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, in conjunction with the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs, launched the first Virtual Veterans Experience Action Center (V-VEAC) July 29-31, 2020. The program proactively assisted veterans throughout the state of Florida with VA benefits, health care and resources in partnership with the Northeast Florida Community Veterans Engagement Board (CVEB).
“We were proud to partner with the VA on this virtual outreach event. We think this pilot program could be the start of a powerful new avenue to connect veterans nationwide with earned services, benefits and support,” said retired Marine Corps Maj. Gen. James S. “Hammer” Hartsell, deputy executive director of the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs. “We made a positive difference in the lives of these veterans and their families and look forward to more of these events as we honor those who served us.”
Virtual Veteran Outreach
More than 400 veterans received one-on-one assistance from the Virtual Veterans Experience Action Center. VA, State and Veteran and community based organizations helped eligible veterans in several areas. These included filing, updating and adjudicating claims; enrolling in VA health care and schedule medical appointments; access housing and temporary financial assistance and applying for Florida State Veterans’ Benefits Assistance.
Veterans eligible for VA health care and not previously enrolled could immediately connect for care during the event.
VA Secretary Robert Wilkie welcomed veterans calling in to the Virtual Veterans Experience Action Center.
“Where all the resources of your VA and our state and local partners will be available to address your care, benefits and resources needs from wherever you are,” he said.
The first day of the event, a veteran called needing urgent medical attention. A supervisory social worker at the Jacksonville VA Outpatient Clinic assisted the veteran. Staff enrolled the veteran in VA health care and arranged a medical rescue transfer to address his urgent medical needs. They also ensured coordination of care with a home health agency to support his ongoing needs.
To read more on this outreach event, click here.