Veterans who have illnesses related to exposure to burn pits or Agent Orange may benefit from the 2022 PACT Act and can learn more at the Veterans Resource Center in Miami Lakes.
The center welcomes former members of the military and their dependents who live or work in Miami-Dade County, Social Worker and Veterans Service Specialist Kenneth I. Peters said.
“The VA has also expanded mental health care for veterans, regardless of their discharge status or eligibility for health care benefits,” Peters said.
The center, in Miami Lakes Town Hall, is a satellite office of the Miami-Dade County Community Action and Human Services Department.
The location in northwest Miami-Dade County can save veterans from having to make a trip to downtown Miami.
It is open on Tuesdays.
Peters can help veterans and their family members apply for many different benefits.
He can guide applicants with claims and appeals to the U.S. Dept. of Veterans Affairs; referrals to agencies that provide assistance with rent; utility bills; employment; legal needs; home care; Meals on Wheels; Patriot Pass (transit) and other services.
Many applications and documents can be processed on cell phones.
Vets can also get information at the center about pensions; education and training; home loans; burial, memorial and life insurance benefits for themselves and survivors and learn how to obtain medals and records.
Miami Lakes Town Hall is at 6601 Main St.
The Veterans Resource Center is open Tuesdays from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Call Peters at 786-804-2802 on any weekday to make an appointment for Tuesday office hours.
To reach the Veterans Crisis Line, dial 988 and press 1; text 838255 or go online to VeteransCrisisline.net.