Capital Region veterans encouraged to explore benefits and services available to them – WNYT.com

Capital Region veterans encouraged to explore benefits and services available to them  WNYT.com

Experts say many veterans may not realize they qualify for certain benefits or may be hesitant to seek them ALBANY, NY (WNYT) — Veterans who may be unsure about the benefits and services available to them are being encouraged to reach out and learn more about what they have earned through their military service. During a recent discussion about veterans’ resources, Amel Baker, a VA public affairs outreach volunteer specialist, and Scott Leslie, director of the Albany County Veterans Service Bureau, said many veterans may not realize they qualify for certain benefits or may be hesitant to seek them. Baker said that can be particularly true among older veterans, including those who served during the Vietnam and Korean wars.

“It’s one thing for the younger folks,” Baker said, noting that many younger veterans are more comfortable using online resources to find information. He said some older veterans may have gone decades without seeking benefits. Baker also said some veterans mistakenly believe that using available benefits takes resources away from other veterans. He said veterans should understand that the benefits are funded through the federal government and that accessing them does not mean another veteran is losing out. Leslie said the Albany County Veterans Service Bureau works with veterans and their families to help them determine what resources may be available.