CVSO Office Updates
Welcome to August Olmsted County’s Finest!
I have a few things on my mind as we soar into this month. First and foremost, I must give a HUGE thank you to all of you fine folks who have stuck around, been patient, offered grace, and just been yourselves over the course of the past year. July 17th of 2024 marked my first full year in this office, and WOW! What a whirlwind. I have enjoyed getting the opportunity to work with you and learn from you, and I’m so grateful. Something that has started to resonate with me though, is the complexity of this work. It is important and (surprise coming your way 😉) IT’S CONFUSING! I can say that I’ve really had to dig deep and figure out who I should ask my questions and where can I find answers when it seems we’ve hit a dead end on certain issues.
Bearing this in mind, I plan to introduce some enjoyable "VA Snacks" for those of you who regularly read this newsletter. The goal is to simplify the '10 course meal' of the VA into smaller, more digestible 'bite-sized portions,' allowing you to better understand benefits administration, the available benefits, and your potential eligibility.
This month’s ‘VA Snack’ will focus on the difference between the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) and the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA). It would seem these two agencies would work together, but they are very different and handle different areas of the greater Veterans Administration.
The Veterans Health Administration provides preventive care, primary and specialty care, mental health services, home health care, geriatric care, and prescription medications. VHA is NOT health insurance that can be used with private providers. If the VA Clinic is not able to provide a service, they will contract that needed service out with community care. You may be required to pay co-pays for care, but there are no premiums.
In order to reach the VA Medical Center in Rochester, you can call 507-252-0885. This number will bring you to a call center in Minneapolis, where your call will then be routed to the appropriate place. Many folks have asked if there is a ‘direct line’ to the clinic in town, and unfortunately there is not.
The VA Clinic here in town is not able to assist with VA Health Care Enrollment or provide any supporting military documents (such as DD214s)- this is done through a Veterans Services Officer. So if you’d like to sign up for VA Health care you can go on-line and schedule an appointment with our office OR you can give myself (507-328-6358) or Karen (507-328-6355) a call and we’ll get you scheduled.
The Veterans Benefits Administration is responsible for disability compensation (service connection for chronic conditions related to your service), pension, home loans, education, and survivor benefits. The VBA handles pensions and non-service connected pension for war time veterans and their spouses.
Any and all questions pertaining to VA service connection, what you are eligible for, and all the information in between can be handled in the Veterans Services Offices. If you ever have questions on what you might be eligible for feel free to give me a call and we can chat through your options.
As the months go on, I will continue to address the differences with these systems and the other various ins and outs of the Veterans Benefits Administration. My hope is to share as much information as possible so folks can fully understand and utilize the benefits they’ve earned through their service to this great country. Hopefully we can dispel some myths, answer long standing questions you might have, and enjoy the process along the way.
Make August GREAT, soak up the sun, check on your battle buddies, drink your water, and live this life we’ve been given, to the fullest, you only get one. I’m happy to be here serving you and look forward to seeing you around!
 Tiffany Canfield
Veteran Services Manager
Veteran Service Office Snapshot
June 2024
Total claims submitted to VA:
- Compensation: 55
- VA Healthcare: 6
- DIC: 1
- Burial: 10
- Survivor’s Pension: 0
- CHAMPVA: 0
- Records Request: 5
- Special Monthly Pension: 1
Points of contact with veterans (office visits, incoming mail, phone calls
returned, emails returned, etc.): 483
Veterans in office: 113
Outreach visits: 2
Total phone calls: 274
Average number of calls per day: 9
Average call length: 3 minutes and 12 seconds
Karen's Korner
Prepare for VA's Secure Sign-in Changes
In 2025, you'll need to start using a Login.gov or ID.me account to sign in.
Why this matters to you:
The VA is moving to a simpler, more modern sign-in experience with two
secure sign-in account options (Login.gov and ID.me). After January 31, 2025, you won't be able to sign in to VA websites or apps with a My HealtheVet
user ID and password. After September 30, 2025, you won't be able to
sign in with a DS Logon username and password.
Veterans are encouraged to create a Login.gov or ID.me account now. If you already have one of these accounts but haven't yet used it, start now so you have time to get used to it before the change. With Login.gov or ID.me, you'll have access to all the same information and services you use today.
Deer Creek Speedway Veteran's Night
POW MIA Event August 17th
https://sogsite.com/allen-richard-lloyd/
Gold Star Family Day at MN Zoo
Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC)
Surviving spouses can be eligible for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) benefits even if the veteran's death is attributed to a presumptive condition covered under the "PACT Act" (Presumptive Conditions of War Veterans Act) and the veteran was not service-connected for that specific condition.
Under certain circumstances, the VA (Department of Veterans Affairs) may
grant service connection for a presumptive condition if the veteran meets
certain criteria, such as having served in a particular area or during a specific time period associated with exposure to certain hazards or toxins. If the veteran's death is attributed to such a presumptive condition, and it is determined to be service-connected, the surviving spouse would typically be eligible for DIC benefits.
DIC benefits are available to eligible surviving spouses of veterans who died
as a result of a service-connected disability or a condition VA recognizes as presumptive and service-connected. Therefore, even if the veteran was not service-connected for the presumptive condition during their lifetime, if it is determined posthumously that the condition is service-connected and contributed to the veteran's death, the surviving spouse could qualify for DIC benefits.
Understanding the COMPACT Act
On January 17, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs announced any Veteran in suicidal crisis can go to any emergency room to get medical care.
Below we break down what this means for you and your loved ones should you need emergent suicidal care.
What it is
- Any Veteran – whether enrolled in VA or not – can go to a VA or non-VA emergency room for emergent suicidal care.
- We strongly recommend Veterans in suicidal crisis call 911 or visit their nearest emergency room for expedited care. Veterans may go to a VA community outpatient clinic, however, they clinics are only open Monday – Friday during normal business hours.
- VA will provide the treatment or cover the costs for treatment including transportation, inpatient or crisis residential care for up to 30 days, and outpatient care for up to 90 days
Who is eligible
Regardless of VA enrollment status, the following are eligible to have their medical expenses covered by VA:
- Those who were discharged or released from active duty after more than 24 months of active service under conditions other than dishonorable.
- Former members of the armed forces, including reserve service members, who served more than 100 days under a combat exclusion or in support
of a contingency operation either directly or by operating an unmanned aerial vehicle from another location who were discharged under
conditions other than dishonorable.
- Former members of the armed forces who were the victim of a physical assault of a sexual nature, a battery of a sexual nature, or sexual harassment while serving in the armed forces.
Veterans who were dishonorably discharged may still seek emergent suicidal care at a VA or non-VA emergency room, however, VA will not cover the expenses.
How it works
Veterans or their loved ones should do the following in the event of an
emergent suicidal crisis:
- Call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room
- Notify staff that you’re a Veteran
- Staff will take you back and provide treatment
Emergencies are never planned so it’s important you and your loved ones
know where the closest emergency room is located.
Billing
If a Veteran receives a bill for emergency suicide care related care at a VA medical facility, they should contact their local VA patient advocate and ask
for a clinical review with an appropriate provider. Veterans can also contact
the number on their bill to initiate this process.
Veterans who received COMPACT-related care at a community emergency department should submit a signed, written request for reimbursement to their local VA medical facility community care office along with an after-visit summary/medical documentation and a billing statement from the rendering provider showing diagnosis code information and an itemized list of charges.
For more information, visit Emergency Medical Care - Community Care (va.gov).
Another Mental Health Resource to Consider
The Veteran Resilience Project is an organization dedicated to inspiring lifelong change for Minnesota Veterans, Service members and spouses experiencing Trauma and PTSD but creating access to effective therapy to heal.
If you feel like you’re in need of some extra support or even just wanting to start your mental health journey somewhere, this is a fantastic resource. They offer 12 free sessions with a licensed professional who is concerned about your wellbeing and offering you tools to have the best quality of life.
For more information you can call or click the link below.
Call the Care Coordinator at 763-358-2275
Check the Status of your VA Claim
VA’s Claim Status Tool allows Veterans to quickly view the status of their VA claim, decision review or appeal online through VA.gov. This free service
allows Veterans the flexibility to access and monitor their claim online or from their mobile device 24/7. Veterans can select the time of day that best suits
their schedule.
To begin, simply create a secure, personal online account on VA.gov using the free Login.gov or ID.me services. You can also sign in your account with your existing Login.gov, ID.me, DS Logon, or MyHealtheVet account.
Once online, you have instant access to view your claim, upload any required information and download available decision letters without having to wait for
a person to process your request.
Some new features include:
- User-friendly interface: Easier to navigate and find what you need.
- Real-time notifications: Get up-to-date information about your claim
status instantly.
- Mobile optimization: Manage your claim on your phone or tablet, from anywhere.
- Clearer information: See your claim details presented more clearly,
making it easier to understand the status and next steps.
This is one of several recent updates aimed to improve the digital self-service experience of the VA Claim Status Tool, making it easier to view and manage your VA claim and quickly locate the information you need online.
These updates are part of VA’s commitment to provide Veterans with the best possible service and support.
Please visit the How to check your VA claim, appeal, or decision review status online page on VA.gov for step-by-step instructions on using the tool.
New Patient Orientation (Virtual)
VFW Golf Tournament
Stewardship Projects
Minnesota Scientific and Natural Areas
Come assist with stewardship projects at SNAs in southeast Minnesota.
Events will be led by contracted naturalist Sara Holger, sign up at driftlessnaturalistllc@gmail.com.
Tools and good camaraderie will be provided. Bring water, snacks/lunch, and dress for working in the weather. Footwear appropriate for outdoor work/hiking
is recommended. If you have your own gloves you'd like to use, please bring them as well. There are no maintained trails, public restrooms nor access
to drinking water on these sites.
 8-06-2024 4pm - 8pm Seed Collection Mound Prairie SNA
9-24-2024 10am - 2pm Seed Collection Kellogg Weaver Dunes SNA
10-02-2024 10am - 2pm Seed Collection Pin Oak Prairie SNA
EVENT CALENDAR: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/snas/events.html
QUESTIONS/SIGN UP: Sara Holger at driftlessnaturalistllc@gmail.com
The Veteran Transit Program
The Landing MN (TLMN) is excited to announce our new partnership with the Minnesota Department of Veteran Affairs (MDVA). The grant awarded by MDVA afforded TLMN the purchase of a mini-van to help veterans in the community with transportation to needed services. This transportation resource allows TLMN to provide rides for U.S Military Veterans experiencing transportation difficulties.
Eligibility:
- US Military veteran
- Must have a DD 214 (if you don’t have one your local VSO can help you obtain a copy)
- Proof of MN residency
Eligible Appointment types:
- Housing
- Employment
- Treatment
- Education
- Health care
- Grocery shopping
- Visiting family at nursing home or hospital
- Funerals
- Pick up and drop off at mechanic for vehicle repairs
Rides are available Monday - Friday from 8 am to 5 pm. To schedule a ride, please call The Landing at 507-884-0423 or the Veterans Services Office at 507-328-6355. You can also request a ride via email: Stephanie.Rice@TheLandingMN.org or Tori.Watkins@TheLandingMN.org
Expansion of Healthcare Eligibility
VA has announced that they are expanding healthcare eligibility to all veterans who served in the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, Iraq, Afghanistan, or any other combat zone after 9/11/2001. Originally, the PACT Act called for a phased in approach, but at the direction of President Biden, VA has instead opened this expanded eligibility to VA Healthcare effective March 5, 2024.
Eligible veterans are encouraged to enroll in VA healthcare; you can do so online at https://www.va.gov/health-care/apply/application/introduction,
by phone at 877-222-8387, by visiting a local VA medical facility or by
contacting your local county Veteran Service Officer.
For more information please review VA’s official statement here.
Guided Forest Bathing Walks
FREE Lifetime Passes
Veterans, Gold Star Families get free lifetime pass to national parks, wildlife refuges, other public lands
On Veterans Day 2022, the National Park Service unveiled a lifetime pass providing free entrance to national parks for Veterans and their families. The Interagency Military Lifetime Pass waives entrance fees for the National Park Service and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and standard amenity recreation fees for the Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Reclamation, U.S. Forest Service and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers sites for current military service members and their dependents, Veterans and Gold Star Families.
Veterans and their families have free access to approximately 2,000 public locations spread out across more than 400 million acres of public lands, which host activities to fit any lifestyle—from serene to high octane, including hiking, fishing, paddling, biking, hunting, stargazing, camping, and much more.
The Military Pass has been expanded to include a pass that does not expire for Veterans and Gold Star Family members. The National Defense Authorization Act of 2022 authorized a free lifetime pass to national parks and other federal recreational lands for eligible Veterans and Gold Star Families. In recent years, they were able to receive annual passes.
Are you eligible?
For purposes of this program, a Veteran is identified as an individual who has served in the United States Armed Forces, including the National Guard and Reserve, and is able to present one of the following forms of valid (unexpired) identification:
* Department of Defense Identification Card
* Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)
* Veteran ID Card
* Veterans designation on a state-issued U.S. driver’s license or
identification card
Gold Star Families are next of kin of a member of the United States Armed Forces who lost his or her life in a “qualifying situation,” such as a war, an international terrorist attack, or a military operation outside of the United States while serving with the United States Armed Forces.
The America the Beautiful – the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass (Interagency Pass) Program
The Interagency Pass Program includes a free annual pass for active-duty members of the U.S. Military and their dependents. Current Military service members must show a valid (unexpired) Department of Defense ID. Dependents of current service members must show a valid (unexpired) DD Form 1173 AD or DEC.
Other free or discounted passes, including some lifetime passes, are available for persons with permanent disabilities, fourth grade students, volunteers and senior citizens age 62 years or older.
How to get your Interagency Pass
Interagency Passes can be obtained in person while visiting a participating site. Visit Places to Get Interagency Passes for a searchable list and be sure to contact the site before you go, to make sure they are open and have passes in stock. In addition, Military passes, as well as those for seniors and persons with permanent disabilities, are available online through the USGS Online Store with an additional processing fee. Existing passes remain valid. You do not need to obtain a new pass if you already have a Lifetime Senior or Access Pass.
For more information about eligibility and passes, visit Free Entrance to National Parks for Veterans and Gold Star Families (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov).
The participating agencies also offer several fee-free days for everyone throughout the year to mark days of celebration and commemoration. Examples of fee-free days include the birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr., National Public Lands Day, Veterans Day and the signing of the Great American Outdoors Act.
Fee-free days and fee policies vary among the agencies, so it’s best to check the agency website or contact the site you plan to visit in advance of your trip.
North Star Promise Scholarship Program
Beginning in fall 2024, the North Star Promise (NSP) Scholarship program will create a tuition and fee-free pathway to higher education for eligible Minnesota residents at eligible institutions as a "last-dollar" program by covering the balance of tuition and fees remaining after other scholarships, grants, stipends and tuition waivers have been applied.
By making college accessible and affordable, NSP is intended to have a positive impact on multiple fronts:
- Help stabilize enrollment at Minnesota public institutions of higher education;
- Serve as an economic driver for Minnesota by educating qualified workers who are much needed to fill vacancies in the state's labor force;
- Create a viable higher education path for Minnesota residents who may have previously thought education was not a possibility for them.
We estimate this program will impact 15,000-20,000 students in the first academic year.
North Star Promise Scholarship Program (state.mn.us)
Motor Vehicle Fees
Exemptions for Veterans who are rated at 100% disabled
Effective May 22, 2023, 100% service connected disabled veterans receive the following fee exemptions:
* Most registration fees for a total of two vehicles with registration starting
on or after January 1, 2024. The two vehicles may be in either Passenger,
Motorcycle, Recreational or Non-Commercial 1-ton class. Personalized
plate messages, special plate annual contributions and impound plate and
reinstatement fees still apply.
Effective January 1, 2024, 100% service connected disabled veterans receive
the following fee exemptions:
* Most title fees on any vehicle purchased on or after January 1, 2024
* Most title fees on any vehicle transaction done on or after January 1, 2024,
provided the veteran is listed as a title owner or lienholder. Examples of
transactions include, but are not limited to: Duplicate Title, Title Transfer,
Repossession and Add Title transactions to surrender an OS title.
* All fees for any type of drivers license or ID card, including Standard,
Real ID and EDL.
* Salvage inspection and fast track fees still apply
Effective June 30, 2024, 100% service connected disabled veterans receive
the following fee exemptions:
* Motor Vehicle Sales Tax on any vehicle purchased on or after July 1, 2024
The following documents can be used:
* Annual VA Benefits Letter
* Annual VA Benefits Letter with Total Disability for Individual Unemployability
* VA Decision Letter
* Department of Defense Issued Military ID Card
FREE Captioned Phones
FREE captioned phones for those with hearing loss. If you have a difficult time hearing and/or understanding people on the phone this is for you. Adjustable volume and tone control to make hearing easier. Large screen with adjustable font, text size, and colors to make seeing the captions easier.
April Currier
OEI Installer
Outreach, Education, & Installations
Supporting CapTel Captioned Telephone
Rochester, MN
507-577-3616
April.Currier@oeius.org
DAV Transportation
*A friendly reminder from our DAV Transportation Department*
DAV Transportation is a COURTESY SERVICE to help veterans get to VA
and Community Care appointments ONLY. Unfortunately, there is not the capacity to assist with transport to C&P Exams.
If you are in need of transportation to a C&P exam, please reach out to
Tiffany Canfield (507-328-6358). She will discuss other options with you.
Seats are very limited so please call Kati to schedule your ride AS SOON
AS you are made aware of your appointment date.
Kati sends out the drivers schedule for the week every Monday, so it is very important you get in touch with her at least five business days before your appointment.
Lastly, please be kind! We know your appointment is important and we are doing our best to assist. Due to the volume of folks needing rides, we are
unable to accommodate day of, day before, or any last minute changes.
Preston Veterans Home
The mission of the Minnesota Veterans Homes is “serving those who have served” by providing quality health care in an environment of trust, dignity and sharing.
Admission Requirements: All Residents must require skilled nursing care. Eligible Residents come from two categories:
- Veterans who were discharged under honorable conditions from any branch of the U.S. armed forces and are a current resident of Minnesota.
- Spouses of eligible Veterans. Spouses must be at least 55 years old and meet residency requirements.
**Veterans or Veteran spouses must meet Minn. Stat. 197.447.
Residents contribute to the cost of their care according to their means. Additional information is available from our Veterans Benefits Coordinator.
Minnesota Veterans Home - Preston
1864 First Minnesota
Preston, Minnesota 55965
Phone: 1-507-808-8910
Online at: MinnesotaVeteran.org/Homes
Calling All WWII Veterans
If you know of any living WWII veterans who could use a little love and appreciation for their service, please contact Commander Jim Anderson, Disabled American Veterans SE MN Chapter 28. Due to confidentiality, our office cannot release any names or personal information, so we’re counting on our readers to reach out to Jim. You can email him at davsemn28@gmail.com or give him a call at 507-251-2187.
Camp Bliss Events
2024 Camp Bliss Retreats for Veterans, Law Enforcement and People with Disabilities!
We are thrilled to share some exciting news with you! We have been very successful with our legislative pursuits for funding of Veteran Retreats and Getaways at Camp Bliss. Exciting News!
- We will not be charging a registration fees for Veteran getaways for the next two years, we have secured funding from the MDVA. For non-qualifying Veterans there will be a fee of $100 per person to attend a getaway or retreat. If you have questions about the guidelines please call Lori at (320) 281-2016.
- We will now be allowed to get reimbursement for Spouses, children, and active-duty service members!
You may come up to two retreats per year!!!! MDVA Calendar Year September 1, 2023 – August 30, 2024. We have added many exciting retreats due to this!! A complete list of 2024 Retreats and Getaways are listed below! **Because there will not be a registration fee, you will still be required to submit the appropriate documentation, DD214 (Member 4) and Driver’s license or state ID. If a spouse is attending and has a different last name, you will be required to show proof of marriage before you are considered “registered.” Once you are, please commit fully to attending your retreat as there are limited spots for each one and if you do not show up, that is a Veteran’s spot that you have eliminated
If a Retreat/Getaway says FILLED, please email or call Lori O. to be put on a waiting list: Register@campbliss.org or call 320-281-2016
2025 Upcoming Camp Bliss Retreats.
Flyers and Registrations will be available soon.
Veterans Ice Fishing Tournament Getaway – January 22-24, 2025
Veterans Ice Fishing Tournament Getaway – January 24-26, 2025
Female Veterans Getaway – January 31 – February 2, 2025
Veterans & Spouses Ice Fishing Getaway – February 7-9, 2025
Female Veterans Getaway – March 7-9, 2025
Veterans & Spouses R&R Getaway – April 11-13, 2025
Female Veterans Getaway – May 2-4, 2025
Veterans Turkey Hunt Getaway – May 16-18, 2025
Camp Lejeune News
VA covers cost of Parkinson’s care for family members of Veterans who served at Camp Lejeune
WASHINGTON — The VA announced that family members of Veterans exposed to contaminated drinking water at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune from Aug. 1, 1953 to Dec. 31, 1987 are now eligible for reimbursement of health care costs associated with Parkinson’s disease under the Camp Lejeune Family Member Program.
These family members are also eligible for health care reimbursement for esophageal cancer, lung cancer, breast cancer, bladder cancer, kidney cancer, leukemia, multiple myeloma, renal toxicity, miscarriage, hepatic steatosis, female infertility, myelodysplastic syndromes, scleroderma, neurobehavioral effects, and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
“Veterans and their families deserve no-cost health care for the conditions they developed due to the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune,” said VA’s Under Secretary for Health Dr. Shereef Elnahal, M.D. “We’re proud to add Parkinson's to the list of conditions that are covered for Veteran family members, and we implore anyone who may be living with this disease — or any of the other conditions covered by VA’s Camp Lejeune Family Member Program – to apply for assistance today.”
Veterans who served at Camp Lejeune are also eligible for no-cost Parkinson’s health care and other VA benefits. Recent studies have also shown that the risk of Parkinson’s disease is 70% higher for Veterans stationed at Camp Lejeune.
Thanks to the PACT Act, the biggest expansion of Veteran health care and benefits in generations, Veterans and their families can also now file lawsuits for harm caused by exposure to contaminated water at Camp Lejeune.
To apply for health care reimbursement under the Camp Lejeune Family Member Program, visit the CLFMP program website. To apply for Veteran benefits related to Camp Lejeune, visit VA.gov/CampLejeune.
State Soldiers Assistance Program
(SSAP) Providing benefits for Minnesota Veterans for 100 years!!
The State Soldiers Assistance Program (SSAP) has provided a variety of benefits for Minnesota Veterans and their families for the past 100 years.
Talk to your County Veterans Service Officer today to learn more about these benefits and others that you may be eligible for!
Dental: Provides $1,500 in annual dental assistance and $6,500 in lifetime assistance for extractions and dentures to Veterans, spouses, and dependents.
Optical: Provides $600 in annual optical assistance to Veterans, spouses, and dependents for exams, prescription eyewear and contact lenses.
Disaster Relief Grants: Provides financial assistance, upon activation by the Governor, for individuals impacted by a natural disaster.
Veteran Relief Grants: Provides broad financial assistance to a Veteran or surviving spouse.
Subsistence: Provides a form of short-term disability to Veterans and surviving spouses who cannot work at their normal occupation for at least 30 days or to surviving spouses within a year of the passing of the Veteran. Assistance includes rent/mortgage, utilities, health care premiums, and cash assistance.
Surviving Spouse and Dependent Education: Provides a tuition waiver and an annual $750 stipend to surviving spouses or dependents of certain veterans at any University or College within the M-State or University of Minnesota systems. Benefits are available until a bachelor’s degree is attained, regardless of age.
Housing/Voucher Deposit Assistance Program (VDAP): Covers the security deposit for any Veteran or surviving spouse who is moving into subsidized housing and in receipt of a housing choice voucher.
More details online at: MinnesotaVeteran.org/Benefits
Medical Equipment Available
Are you in need of medical equipment, such as a wheelchair (both manual and electric), walker, electric hospital bed, crutches, etc? Do you have medical equipment that you want to donate to other people in need?
The Kasson American Legion has medical equipment for use by anyone in the area (veterans, cancer patients, accident victims). The equipment is free to use and all they ask is that you return it when you are done so someone else can use it.
For more information, please call Dick Denny at (507) 259-2081. Equipment pick up and drop off is by appointment only.
Women Veterans Over 40 Discussion Group
This group will provide an opportunity for women veterans 40 years old and
over to come together for support and community while learning creative ways to choose joy, spread joy and receive joy using evidence-based approaches to support stress relief, resilience, productivity and healthy living.
Sessions include:
* Discussion on relevant physical, emotional, spiritual health and
wellness topics
* SMART goal development and accountability
* Aromatherapy education for overall wellness and application for
targeted support
* Education and preparation of aroma stick, rollerball or spray for
application at home
Hosted by: Dr. Letticia N. Callies, DMin, MA, CCA
Where: VFW Post 1215 (back conference room)
2775 - 43rd Street NW
Rochester, MN 55901
When: Tuesdays - August 6, September 3, October 1,
November 5 and December 3
Time: 6 - 8 pm
ID Cards at the Rochester VA Clinic
VA Health Identification Cards may be obtained at the Rochester VA Clinic by appointment only on the following dates:
September 19, 2024
November 21, 2024
You MUST be enrolled and eligible for care in order to receive a Veteran's
Health Identification Card!!
Please call the VA at 1-866-414-5058 to make an appointment in Rochester.
*The Minneapolis VA Medical Center issues ID cards daily.
There are different types, and different ways to obtain Veteran ID Cards. Click HERE for more information.
PTSD Support Group
A support group for veterans that have been diagnosed with PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), or those who have signs and symptoms of PTSD, and their family members. Sometimes the most painful injuries aren't physical. Whether it's PTSD, TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury), combat stress or any other mental health condition, we're here to help you get through it. The group is facilitated by Jennifer Shumaker.
Where: VFW Post 1215 (back room)
2775 - 43rd Street NW
Rochester, MN 55901
When: August 29, September 26, October 24 (due to Halloween),
November 21 (due to Thanksgiving) and December 19 (due to
Christmas)
Time: 6:30 to 8 pm
For more information, please email: jennifersm77@hotmail.com
Guiding Partners to Solutions
New outreach program connects social workers with residents in need in various community locations
Olmsted County, in partnership with Family Service Rochester, is pleased to bring its Guiding Partners to Solutions (GPS) program to residents in need at various community locations.
GPS is a team of social workers that serves county residents struggling to connect with resources or services they may need. GPS works to reduce barriers and connect individuals and families with housing, cash, food, and insurance assistance and provides help in applying for these benefits.
Guiding Partners to Solutions (GPS) social workers will be available at the following locations:
- Tuesdays, 8 – 10 am
Riverside Central Elementary School
506 - 5th Avenue SE, Rochester NOTE: This is only open to families
with children at Riverside Central. This is NOT open to the public.
- Thursdays, 11:30 am – 1 pm
The Salvation Army Social Services Center
115 - 1st Avenue NE, Rochester
- Thursdays, 1:30 – 5 pm
Rochester Public Library
101 - 2nd Street SE, Rochester
Saturday Meal Programs
Christ United Methodist Church
400 – 5th Avenue SW, Rochester, MN
Saturday Noon Meal Program
* 11 am: coffee, hot chocolate and light snacks
* Noon: Hot meal served
Please enter the church via the west door on 5th Avenue and join us in the lower level of the church in Wesley Hall
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Holy Cross Lutheran Church
Ruby's Pop-Up Pantry
2703 - 9th Avenue NW, Rochester, MN
Ruby’s Pantry is for ANYONE that eats! There is no income or residency requirement and Ruby’s Pantry is for anyone looking to extend their monthly grocery budget. Each guest donates a $25 donation and receives an abundance of grocery items. Please bring two totes or baskets. Drive thru distribution. Ruby’s Pantry is not government funded and is a 501 C3. Each donation is used to cover operational costs like trucking, gas, and warehouse staff. All of the food is donated by corporate food donors making it possible to reach more families each month at locations across Minnesota and Wisconsin.
Next Pop-Up Pantry is Saturday, August 10, 2024
DAYS AND HOURS: 2nd Saturday of the Month. Registration begins at 9 am. Food bundles available 9 -10:30 am
Seasons Hospice Ongoing & Special Programs
All grief group participants of Seasons Hospice must be registered 24 hours in advance. To register or for more information, click on the blue button and you will be directed to their website.
Jobs at the MN Department of Veterans Affairs
Interested in serving Veterans? Looking to make a difference in your community? Consider a career with the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA)! Roles in healthcare, nursing, facilities management and program management are featured below. MDVA proudly offers competitive pay, generous benefits as a State of MN employee, welcoming and supportive teams, and most importantly, meaningful careers.
To see full job posting and apply:
1. Go to https://mn.gov/mmb/careers/ and select your applicant type:
External Applicants or Current Employees or Accessible Applicant Portal.
2. On the Careers landing page, enter the Job ID in the Search Jobs field.
Click on the posting.
3. Select “Apply for Job” button. New users will need to create an applicant
account to apply.
JOBS
Local Service Organization Meetings
For a full list of local organizations and meetings, please click on the blue button.
"To promote the interests and welfare of veterans, their dependents and survivors and to enhance their quality of life through counseling, claims assistance, education, advocacy and special projects."
2100 Campus Dr. SE, Suite 200
Rochester, MN 55904
507-328-6355
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