Did you know there is a preferred method when screening for military connectedness? “Have you or a member of your household served in the military?” Using “Have you served?” instead of “Are you a veteran?” allows for those who may not consider themselves a veteran or are uncomfortable identifying as such to answer yes.
For those who identified as being military connected, did you know that the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency (MVAA) can connect them to their benefits and other assistance programs? All services are free and confidential.
It all starts by calling 1-800-MICH-VET (1-800-642-4838) or making the referral via MVAA-Check on MiVet (michigan.gov). Lean on the MVAA to link those who are military connected to their benefits, including:
Retrieval of DD-214s
Health care and mental health resources
Disability compensation
Emergency financial assistance
Employment and education
With that said, the biggest barrier for veterans and their families is simply not knowing what benefits are available or unawareness of how to start the process. To help bridge this barrier, we have developed the MI Veteran Connector (MVAA - Veteran Connector (michigan.gov).
This initiative offers free toolkits, brochures, and resources on how to connect to those who have served and their families to earned benefits. Email [email protected] to learn more and to become a Michigan Veteran Connector.
Shared on behalf of the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency. The language above is that of the State of Michigan, not MCRGO.
