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Peoria County veterans office reports increased assistance, expedites claims for homeless veterans
Summary
Mike Brooks of the Veterans Assistance Commission reported 2,032 office walk-ins year to date, an average of about 406 per month, substantial funds brought in for veterans and described expedited handling for homeless or terminal veterans; the office also announced recognition slots at Peoria Chiefs games.
Mike Brooks, with the Veterans Assistance Commission, told the Ways and Means Committee on June 2 that the commission has assisted 2,032 people so far this year, averaging roughly 406 visitors per month, and has brought in substantial funds for veterans.
Brooks described the office’s practice of flagging homeless or terminal veterans for expedited handling with VA contacts and provided an example of a veteran who moved to Peoria with a long-pending claim who received a decision within five days and “a little bit over 4,000, back pay right away,” Brooks said. He also reported the commission expects to bring in roughly $1 million to $2 million more than last year, and he promoted the program that recognizes veterans at Peoria Chiefs games; eight recognition slots remain available.
“We had 2,032 people walk in the office so far this year, which averages out to about 406, per month,” Brooks told the committee. “We have actually, we had 2 people move from out west...we had a decision within 5 days...he got a little bit over 4,000, back pay right away.” Brooks explained the commission coordinates with VA social workers and local organizations such as the Salvation Army to assist veterans who need housing or case management support.
The committee received the report as information. No formal actions were taken on funding or program changes during the meeting.
