Veterans assistance program at the Beacon of Hope
To the editor:
The Beacon of Hope marches into our third year offering confidential appointment times for our honorably discharged veterans and survivors. Rodney Van Ness, program manager for Veteran Services, Lee County Human and Veterans Services, and I will help you. We understand and will assist with getting our veterans as well as survivors through the smorgasbord of benefits for which you may be eligible. Signing up through the automated government application system is sometimes very challenging. Once again we will help with getting this done.
So let’s talk about what we need to start to help you. If you decide to meet with us, bring your DD form 214. Feel free to bring another trusted person with you. We will ask you specific questions about your time served. The most elementary questions are surrounding health care. Is the VA your primary health care provider or do you use them as a back up to your doctor? Are you currently on disability? Did you have a reported injury on active duty for which you are not being compensated?
The VA has limitations for health care based on income if you have not previously enrolled for healthcare assistance. There are income thresholds for a single or married veteran, unless you have other qualifying factors, such as service in Vietnam or have a service connected disability. In recent years, the income levels have become more lenient. These numbers only apply to veterans seeking enrollment into the VA for the first time. We will help you determine your eligibility. You will need total income earned for the previous year and medical expenses.
Please note that on Feb. 7 the appointments will take place at the Pine Island Fire Department close to the 4-way stop by Circle K. We will begin at 9 a.m. and end at 12:30 p.m. Please call the Beacon Office at 283-5123 to set up an appointment.
If you cannot make the appointment, please advise so we can help another veteran.
With the help of the Beacon of Hope today, we will work hard to improve your tomorrows
James L. Garnett
USAF veteran