Noteboom The Law Firm

California VA Struggling to Contact Veterans

April 16, 2010 - There are approximately 2.1 million veterans in the state of California representing every possible ethic group, age, and sex. The California Department of Veterans Affairs (CVA) is facing real problems with contacting these veterans about the health care services available to them through the VA.

Different veterans will take advantage of different benefits they earned by serving their country. However, if you cannot reach the veterans, they cannot benefit from such services as:

• Educational benefits;
• Medical coverage; and
• Varying levels and topics of counseling.

 So far the CVA has tried to contact veterans through such means as town hall meetings, various media outlets, and a variety of public service announcements. The CVA has an easy to navigate website where veterans can easily register for different services and benefits. Veterans will be contacted within a week of registering.

The CVA Ventura facility recently opened and caters to veterans aged 62 and over requiring specialized care. The Ventura CVA has an outstanding location and community support. Once they reach 22 residents, the U.S. VA will start subsidizing the home in part. In 2014-15 the CVA expects a new facility to open providing services for 50 veterans.

The CVA, in attempting to meet VA Secretary Eric Shinseki's goal of eliminating homelessness among veterans, is giving priority to homeless veterans. The CVA is making a concerted effort to attempt to reach out to veterans living in California. Hopefully more veterans will take advantage of what is being offered.