Noteboom The Law Firm

Proposed Oakland Park, FL Veteran Integration Program Faces Local Opposition

Veterans of all walks of life are finding it difficult to transition back into civilian lives following their military service. These difficulties are magnified for those veterans with disabilities or injuries, whether they are physical or mental. In an attempt to make that transition as easy as possible, the Miami Herald reports the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has proposed a "unique" treatment program.

That Veteran Integration Program, however, has run into a wall of resistance from local residents and civic groups in Oakland Park, Florida. Oakland Park residents have voiced concerns the treatment center will do nothing but collect "undesirables," such as "drunks, drug addicts and mental patients."

This program is only 1 of 4 existing in the country, and it is now up to the city commissioners to decide if it will exist in Oakland Park. The VA has stated veterans with severe issues such as substance abuse or mental conditions will not be using the Oakland Park facility. Despite what local residents are claiming, the proposed facility is not a homeless shelter.

This facility is one that will focus on helping veterans transition back into the civilian community and away from the dependent lifestyle many develop from serving years in the military.

If you are a disabled veteran who has been denied disability compensation or have not yet applied for benefits from the VA, a South Florida disability attorney from LaVan & Neidenberg is ready to help. To learn if you are entitled to certain programs and benefits contact our veterans disability rights firm today - 1-888-234-5758.