Sens. Jon Tester (D-MT) and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) have introduced VFW-supported S. 1436, Critical Health Access Resource and Grant Extensions (CHARGE) Act of 2023 to extend essential veteran programs and authorities that are set to expire on May 11. The bill includes provisions related to homelessness, caregivers, and State Veterans Homes. VFW National Legislative Director Pat Murray commented, “Combating veteran homelessness is more than just simply providing a roof over a person’s head, and oftentimes is accompanied by other financial struggles. A critical component of the CHARGE Act is allowing for more flexibility to assist veterans struggling to acquire food, clothing, hygiene materials, and other items needed for daily life. The VFW thanks Sens. Tester and Murkowski for their commitment to eliminating veteran homelessness.”
Visit PACTActInfo.org
The VFW-championed PACT Act added more than twenty presumptive conditions for burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxins, extending VA benefits and compensation to toxic-exposed veterans and their surviving families more than ever before. Who does the PACT Act affect? How do I know if I qualify? How do I join to help the fight? The VFW has developed a quick and easy questionnaire to determine potential eligibility under the PACT Act. Visit PACTActInfo.org to learn more about PACT Act eligibility, then contact a credited service officer.
Free Connections to Resources
The National Resource Directory (NRD) gives service members, veterans, family members, and caregivers the ability to find and connect with organizations that can assist with specialized recovery, rehabilitation, and reintegration needs. The NRD is the product of a partnership with DOD, VA, and the Department of Labor. This program is meant to facilitate free connections between individuals and stringently vetted resources that provide support in many areas such as employment, education, veteran benefits, caregiver support, housing, and the Military Adaptive Sports Program.
POW/MIA Update
Army Cpl. George T. Grimes, 19, of Quinlan, Texas, was a member of A Company, 1st Battalion, 34th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division. He went missing in action on July 20, 1950, and the Army issued a presumptive finding of death on Dec. 31, 1953. He will be buried in Jacksonville, Florida, on a date yet to be determined.
Till next week, praying for all service members.
– Charles Castelluccio
