WASURERU-NAI

Most of you know that I am continuously monitoring changes to the benefit packages available to our veterans and widows. Our association, through the National Council of Veterans Associations, are persistent in pressuring the government to fulfill the needs of our vets and widows in accordance with Canada’s obligation to these special people. The most recent change is the increase of funeral service allowance to $7,376.00 for those that qualify. We are working to remove the government’s challenge as to the definition of "service related" as the qualifying determination.

 

You will have read about the closing of Regional offices by Veterans Affairs, and although distressing to our senior veterans, the greatest concern in the veterans community, is the plight of the modern veteran. Afghanistan has left many scars on the bodies and minds of our veterans, and this must be addressed to ensure that the needs of these wounded service people, and their families are met.

 

That being true, there are several outstanding needs of the "traditional" veteran (up to and including Korea) and their widows that could be addressed without a major cost. These include Long Term Care and VIP for Life for Widows. In the case of the latter, we wish to remove and requirement for the veteran to have been receiving VIP in order for the widow to qualify, and also the flexibility to change services as the needs changes. Currently there are no options, once the existing functional change no longer exists, neither does the VIP funding.

 

To this end, we must live with the existing regulation, therefore we strongly urge our surviving veterans to apply for every possible VIP category in order that the widow receive the greatest benefits possible. Additionally for current widows, if you are classed as disabled and have completed the CRA’s T2201E form for Disability Tax Credit Certification, or are receiving the Guaranteed Supplement. Please contact the War Amps immediately to ensure you are receiving maximum benefit.

 

Please feel free to contact me for additional information. I may be contacted through the HKVCA Web page, or if computers are not "your thing", my cell telephone is 613-601-5033.

 

Regards,

 

Derrill

National Secretary, HKVA, and Vice-Chair, NCVA