The Washington County Veterans Affairs Office is seeing an increase in federal dollars this year. The Federal VA supports Washington County Veterans and their families. According to Veterans Affairs Director Carrie Rich, as of this month, $832,274 has come into the county for veteran support, which is an increase of $87,765 from last January.

The Washington County Board of Supervisors heard the Veterans Affairs Department’s quarterly report Tuesday during their regular meeting, reporting downward trends for veteran assistance activity for the quarter, but increased federal veterans support.  Rich explained the recent assistance provided, “I would say that’s down compared to first quarter, but we are trending back up this third quarter. I have ten claims already for the third quarter starting. I’ve been trying to track the trend, and it’s just veterans that are [facing] financial hardship temporarily. It’s not long-term that I am seeing. Surgeries, out of work, or injuries. [Those] type of situations, or one veteran that I helped support this last couple of quarters is overcoming homelessness. Helping him get into his home and up on his feet.”  

Three claims were filed with the department totaling $624.39. The claims included rent, utilities, and food provisions. The Washington County Commission of Veterans Affairs provides assistance to Washington County veterans and eligible family members. They also provide assistance to veterans and their family members in applying for federal benefits and other veterans aid.