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County official reports veteran assistance cases and says housing will be a budget focus
Summary
A county official reported seven veteran-related assistance cases in the first 30 days, described partnerships with legal and shelter providers, and said housing will likely be a budget priority next year.
Tom provided a 30-day update on county assistance and operations, describing volunteer engagement, outreach and direct help for veterans and survivors. "During that period we've assisted six veterans and one surviving spouse," Tom said, and he listed services provided that included housing assistance, disability-claim support, DD214 retrieval and burial benefits.
Tom told the board the county distributed about $300 in financial assistance so far and is using regional partners — Centerstone and Southern Illinois University’s Veteran Legal Assistance Program — for legal and shelter support until staff members obtain full VSO certification. He said his VSO certification training is scheduled for the end of September through Oct. 2.
Tom said housing needs appear the most pressing and are likely to shape next year’s budget. He described efforts to coordinate resources so county funds operate as a bridge to larger services rather than a long-term dependency. He also noted several facility-maintenance and capital items in progress, including door-hardware specifications for courthouse renovations, HVAC compressor replacements and a new heavy-duty gate at the jail.
What’s next: Tom asked commissioners for continuing referral of legal and service needs to county staff and said the county will pursue housing-focused budgeting and continued partnerships with regional service providers.
