MVAA to provide mobile service van for Metro Detroit veterans

Veterans in Metro Detroit will soon have another way to connect to their earned benefits with the launch of the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency’s first mobile service unit.

The fully equipped van will be staffed by an accredited Veteran Service Officer (VSO), who can help veterans file claims with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and connect them to other key benefits and resources.

The mobile office, expected to be operational by May 1, will serve veterans who are unable to get to a Veteran Service Officer’s location. While the van is not intended to make visits to veterans’ individual residences, it will serve veterans in previously unreached areas including at their places of employment, education and training facilities, veteran-focused community events and in areas where access to services are limited.

The mobile service unit is a pilot program that could potentially be expanded in other areas of Michigan if successful, said MVAA Director Adam Hollier.

“We know that when there are barriers to receiving assistance, such as reliable transportation, veterans are less likely to connect to the often-critical benefits they have earned for their service such as health care and financial assistance,” Hollier said. “The addition of this mobile service unit will help us bridge the gap for those veterans who cannot meet with a VSO the traditional way.”

VSOs can assist veterans and their families in a variety of ways, including providing information on federal, state and local resources and benefits, assistance on filing claims and representing veterans in VA hearings. VSOs are trained and accredited by the VA or other recognized organizations to help veterans, their dependents and survivors. They can also assist veterans with obtaining their DD-214 discharge papers and other forms.

The mobile service unit will be available by request to visit veteran-centric locations and attend veteran events in Metro Detroit. Once the van is operational, requests can be submitted by filling out this form and emailing it to MVAAStrategy@michigan.gov.

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About the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency: Created by Executive Order in 2013, MVAA’s mission is to be the central coordinating agency, providing support, care, advocacy and service to veterans and their families. The agency works with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, state departments, county agencies, and community and veterans service organizations throughout the state. The agency operates the Michigan Veteran Resource Service Center, a 24/7/365 call center in partnership with Michigan 211. By calling 1-800-MICH-VET (1-800-642-4838) veterans, family members and service providers can get information and access a comprehensive network of resources and services. Learn more at Michigan.gov/MVAA.