On Friday, June 17, American Legion F.W. Grigg Post 68 is sponsoring a special event in support of veterans in need of assistance. To help veterans receive important services they have earned by way of their service to our nation, Post 68 has arranged for the Philadelphia office of the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) to come to Merchantville for an all day outreach event.
The DAV provides free, professional assistance to veterans and their families in obtaining benefits and services earned through military service and provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and other agencies of the government. The organization will have their Mobile Service Office and their professional counselors available to assist veterans and their families.
According to the DAV, almost 50 percent of returning veterans are diagnosed with post traumatic stress disorder or PTSD. Those suffering from the condition can face a variety of issues, from alcohol and drug abuse to anxiety and depression. In fact, an average of 22 veterans commit suicide daily, with PTSD identified as a major contributing factor. The DAV helps these patriots, many of whom who are reluctant to get help because of the stigma associated with PSTD, get the benefits they have earned serving our country.
“If we can help just one veteran, or save one life because of this event, it will be a success,” said John Brouse, commander of Post 68.
The day will include a seminar that explains the benefits available to veterans and the process to secure those benefits. Counselors will be available to meet individually with attendees to answer questions, initiate claims, and assist with expediting claims.
The Camden County Office of Veterans Affairs will also be available to assist with information on local services available to veterans. Several other service providers will be in attendance to offer information on a wide variety of services.
The event will be held at the Merchantville Community Center, 212 Somerset Ave. in Merchantville from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The event is open to all veterans, regardless of their service era or where they live.
“All veterans are strongly encouraged to attend,” added Brouse. “And if you have a loved one, a coworker, or a friend who is a veteran that could benefit from these services, let them know about this event. Just a little bit of help can make all the difference in the world.”
