WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, U.S. Representative Abigail Spanberger hosted an open, public telephone town hall focused on issues facing Central Virginia veterans as the region recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Spanberger was joined by two representatives from the Virginia Department of Veterans Services: Ben Shaw, Central Regional Director, Virginia Veteran and Family Support Program and Dr. John C. Henry, Assistant Regional Manager, Central Region. During the event, the Congresswoman and her guests answered questions directly from Seventh District veterans, caregivers, and their families about mental health challenges, veteran homelessness, inflation, workforce training, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits, and more.

Nearly 9,200 Central Virginians tuned in for the event. Click here for a recording of the event.

“Virginia’s veterans and military families represent the best of our Commonwealth, and we should always strive to mirror their example while recognizing their selfless service. But we also have a sacred responsibility to make sure they receive the benefits and care they have earned, and this week’s telephone town hall was an opportunity for thousands of our region’s veterans to learn more about the issues others might also be facing and the resources available to them,” said Spanberger. “During our event, we heard from many veterans and loved ones about real challenges they face on a daily basis. I am hopeful that our discussion was productive and helpful, and I would like to thank the Virginia Department of Veterans Services for sharing their expertise with our community. If a Central Virginia veteran was unable to have their question answered or needs assistance with the VA or any other agency, I hope they will not hesitate to reach out to my office.”

Wednesday’s telephone town hall was Spanberger’s 19th open, public telephone town hall since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. These events have generally focused on the impacts of the virus on Central Virginia families, healthcare professionals, small businesses, veterans, students, and seniors. Click here to watch full recordings of previous events.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Central Virginian veterans are encouraged to reach out to Spanberger’s office with federal agency, program, or benefits issues. Constituents can reach out to her office by calling (804) 401-4110 or by filling out this form on Spanberger’s website. 

The Virginia Department of Veterans Services has additional resources for Central Virginia veterans and their families related to federal and state benefits, support, quality care, and recognition they have earned. The Department’s website has valuable resources for veteran suicide prevention, legal issues, unhoused veterans, and much more. Veterans and their families can also click here to see a map of their office locations, employment resources, and upcoming events near them.

###