Berrien County Veterans Service Office reports doubling claims despite declining veteran population

In a recent meeting of the Michigan Legislature's Subcommittee on Military and Veterans Affairs, discussions highlighted the ongoing efforts to support veterans in Berrien County, which is home to over 8,400 veterans. Maureen Adams, the director of the Veterans Service Office in Berrien County, presented compelling data showing a significant increase in veteran claims despite a decline in the overall veteran population.

Adams reported that while the veteran population in Berrien County has decreased by 21%, the number of new claims submitted to her office has doubled. This surge in claims is reflected in the financial support provided to veterans, with expenditures rising from $70 million in 2019 to over $95 million in 2023. This increase indicates that outreach efforts funded by grants are effectively reaching veterans in need.

The establishment of a new veteran service office location in Niles last spring has contributed to these successes. However, Adams emphasized that with these achievements come challenges. There is a pressing need for more frontline support to manage the growing demand for services, respond to inquiries, and maintain office operations during outreach and training activities.

The discussions during the meeting underscored the importance of continued investment in veteran services, particularly as the community navigates the complexities of supporting its veteran population. As Berrien County strives to enhance its services, the commitment to addressing the needs of veterans remains a priority for local leaders and the state legislature.