Veteran Assistance Program, Credit Union Helping Veterans Receive Benefits

The Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs estimates more than 150,000 Oklahoma veterans who are eligible for compensation due to a medical condition have not applied for assistance.

The Dale K. Graham Veterans Foundation, a nonprofit aimed at helping veterans receive benefits, said when it comes to applying, it can be challenging for veterans to navigate the online steps. 

“Veterans will navigate the VA claims process, but because of the complexity of the process they will apply for something, then do it incorrectly and get denied," the foundation's strategic operations leader Gary Grimes said. "They will think they are not eligible but actually they are."

The foundation is able to educate through the support of many volunteers and organizationssuch as Navy Federal Credit Union.  

Out of 150 organizations, the foundation received a grant from the credit union and was able to supply brand new computers and office supplies. 

In addition to the funding, Navy Federal said they send 10 to 20 employees each week to the foundation to assist veterans. 

“We’ve been able to reach out to Dale K Graham and veterans were able to keep their lights on right during the holidays,” Navy Federal’s Leah Bierwirth said. “I’ve lost track of how many times the foundation has been able to help with our partnership that we have." 

The Dale K Graham Veterans Foundation is asking for more volunteers to keep serving as many veterans as possible. 

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