BELLINGHAM, Wash. — Since its inception in 2011, the Whatcom County Health Department’s Veterans Program has continued to adapt and expand to meet the needs of the county’s veterans.
Most recently, the department added two accredited Veterans Service Officers to provide one-on-one support, advice, and advocacy for veterans receiving state and local benefits.
As a VSO, Harmon-Craig can prepare and send claims directly to the VA, which expedites the process for veterans who are seeking VA assistance.
Harmon-Craig and WCHD Human Services Supervisor, Ann Beck, who became an accredited VSO in October 2019, are able to provide tailored help to veterans when navigating the process to receive benefits can prove challenging.
Results from the department’s recent veterans needs survey show one in three local veterans are concerned most about affordable housing and access to both physical and mental healthcare.
The Veterans Program works with the Veterans Advisory Board and the veteran community to advocate and plan for services that are more accessible and targeted to the needs of Whatcom County veterans.
More information about the Health Department’s Veterans Program can be found on the Whatcom County website.