Our Office Holds Productive Visit to JBMDL
On January 18th, our office visited JBMDL to speak with Base leadership, military personnel, and other representatives, including from the Base’s Innovation Lab. The group shared updates from the Base, recapped successes from the last year, and reviewed some plans and initiatives ahead for 2023.
We look forward to continuing to prioritize our office’s direct communication with the Base, holding events to hear from our local servicemembers, and working to meet the most pressing needs of our military personnel who work and/or live on Base.
NEW: No-Cost Emergency Mental Healthcare for Veterans
We were excited to share on the 17th that the VA began offering no-cost emergency mental healthcare at the VA and non-VA healthcare facilities for our veterans. This includes inpatient or crisis residential care for up to 30 days and outpatient care for up to 90 days.
Veterans do not need to be enrolled in the VA system to use this benefit.
Congressman Kim fought to deliver veterans the comprehensive and affordable coverage they deserve and is proud this critical support will now be available at no-cost.
Applications Open: SBA Veteran Small Business Certification Program
The Small Business Administration is now accepting applications through the Veteran Small Business Certification program to help deliver veteran entrepreneurs and business owners expanded access to resources.
This program helps certify veteran businesses so that their small businesses can be eligible for key benefits and support. It was previously run through the Department of Veterans Affairs and now will be done solely by the SBA.
REMINDER: VA Health Centers New Toxic Exposure Screenings
Thanks to the recently enacted PACT Act, all veterans enrolled in VA healthcare are eligible for a new toxic exposure screening. The 10-minute screening will help decipher if veterans have experienced any toxic exposures while serving.
Toxic exposure screenings at VA health centers are a first step to ensure any exposed veteran is heard and can access the care they need.
Do you have a copy of your DD-214?
If you do not have a copy of your DD-214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty), you should request a copy from the National Archives and Records Administration since it can take up to 6-12 months to receive. DD-214s are necessary to apply for many of the benefits you are eligible for as a veteran. If you don’t have your DD-214, medical treatment can be delayed for a long time. If you have questions about this, you can contact our office here.
DMAVA Newsletter
The New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs launched a new bi-weekly newsletter on September 14th. The DMAVA newsletter provides information to Servicemembers, Veterans, Employees, Families, Caregivers, Community Partners and those inspired to support our collective mission. You can sign-up for DMAVA’s mailing lists on their website.
Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst (JBMDL) Update
In early January, JBMDL awarded Master Sgt. Christopher Isler, who serves as a section chief within the 305th Maintenance Squadron at JBMDL, with the Airman’s medal for his heroic actions after a car crash on I-295.
On January 13th, U.S. Air Force Airmen at JBMDL took part in exercise Jersey Devil to test the abilities of multi-capable airmen to rapidly deploy, establish, and control air bases alongside joint allies and partners.
On May 20th and 21st, JBMDL will host their 2023 Power in the Pines Air and Space Open House, including a USAF F-16 Viper Demonstration to headline the event which is free and open to the public.
Upcoming Local Events
The New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs is hosting various events throughout February, including a Vet2Vet Monthly Support Group Meeting on February 18th at 12 PM at the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans Museum Holmdel. A VSO will be present to help or assist any veteran.
On February 5th, April 30th, and June 4th, the New Jersey National Guard Child & Youth Program is hosting CPR/AED/First Aid certification training courses at the Bordentown Armory for military and military connected individuals led by an instructor from the Beating Heart Center. The class is free, but you must register in order to attend.
The Camden County Board of Commissioners and the Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center are hosting a Veterans Suicide Awareness Resource Fair and Panel Discussion on March 12 from 1-4 p.m. at Camden County College. The event will be in-person and the panel will also be presented virtually.
Upcoming Webinar: Housing Affordability Webinar
Register now for our next webinar coming up on February 2nd at 9:30 AM. Congressman Kim, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman, Congressman Frank Pallone, and a panel of experts will cover all things housing affordability and access.
This webinar will be helpful for professionals who may serve as a referral source and for those in need of assistance.
Click here to register in advance!
Do You Know Someone Else Who Would Find These Updates Helpful?
If so, please encourage them to sign up here. Please don’t hesitate to be in touch if we can be of assistance to you.
Thank you for giving us the opportunity to serve you every day!
The Office of Congressman Andy Kim
