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Veterans services announces June claims workshop, August stand‑down and seeks transportation support
Summary
Veterans services staff previewed a VA claims workshop (June 24) and an Aug. 28 stand‑down and resource fair; staff reported transportation gaps with Hope Network and said they are pursuing a Pioneer Resources MDOT grant partnership to expand rides.
Veterans services staff updated the committee on upcoming events and program challenges.
Staff said a VA claims workshop to educate the community on federal VA claims processes will be held June 24 and that a stand‑down and resource fair is scheduled for Aug. 28 at the Pinnacle Center in Hudsonville; last year’s attendance and vendor numbers were close to current registration totals. The department has received federal VA surplus items for distribution (rain gear, socks, boots, gloves, bags) and confirmed federal approval to have the VA pay event location and advertising costs.
Staff also described transportation challenges: the Hope Network contract limits medical rides to two narrow time windows, and the program has expanded from about 28,000 rides to roughly 42,000 since the presenter started. Veterans services said it is pursuing a partnership with Pioneer Resources that might make available an MDOT grant to cover transportation through the remainder of the fiscal year and reduce county transportation costs. A committee vacancy was also announced and posted for eligible veterans to apply.
Next steps: staff will continue to pursue grant and partnership options for transportation and will proceed with event logistics for June and August.
