With the fourth of July around the corner, it is a good time of year to reflect on all that makes this country great! A huge part of that is the sacrifice that veterans have made to protect and serve this nation.
Unfortunately protecting our freedom comes at a huge price. Many veterans who have served in various wars and operations have made it home but are living with life altering disabilities. Many may be unemployable and require assistance and financial support.
Fortunately there are some government programs available and offer supplemental grants to those who have fought so hard for this country. If you or a loved one is finding that you require use of a mobility vehicle or equipment, please explore the following funding assistance options. While handicap vans are a costly expense, they can vastly improve your quality of life. America is the greatest nation on earth and it’s in part due to the hard work and bravery of those who have served.
Financial Assistance to Caregivers of Veterans
Being a caregiver to a disabled veteran is an extremely important and noble cause. Caregiving for someone with a handicap disability can be anywhere from minimal to a 24 hour, 7 day a week job. One of the sacrifices the family members, friends and caregivers of wounded or disabled veterans make is the ability to earn an income.
As of May 2011, the Veterans Administration has begun to offer additional financial support to Veterans who receive in home care and have served post-9/11. Based on eligibility requirements, the stipends average about $1,600 per month.
If you are eligible for caregiver resources and services, start by calling the caregivers support line toll free at 1-855-260-3274. The caregivers support line is staffed 24/7 and has been created by clinical social workers who help link resources to caregivers of veterans.
A caregivers support coordinator will help refer you to the necessary forms and applications you will need to acquire benefits, caregiver.va.gov.
Respite care can be offered to caregivers in certain circumstances. A respite caregiver will be assigned or your veteran will be placed at an Adult Day Health Center or VA- Contracted Community Residential Care Facility.
Respite care can also be provided in the circumstance of a family emergency, hospitalization or the need to go out of town.
The best thing a caretaker can do is take care of themselves in order to better help their veteran. Caregiving support groups are a good source to help people transition through the difficulties of the day to day. The VA has provided the following information on self-care for those who assist Veterans.
caregiver.va.gov/pdfs/FamilyCaregiversGuideToIntimacy.pdf
caregiver.va.gov/support/support_services.asp
Are you a disabled veteran or caretaker searching for a quality mobility equipped van? Classic Vans is Northern California’s premier dealer of new and pre-owned conversion vans, motorhomes and handicap vans. Call (510) 924-0839 today and let an expert pair you with the perfect van. Visit their inventory page, www.classicvans.com
Don’t live in California? No problem! Inquire about low-cost, nationwide van delivery options.