The San Bernardino County Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) will provide claims assistance to veterans in Barstow on the third Thursday of every month beginning Feb. 20. This initiative, in partnership with the County Department of Aging and Adult Services-Public Guardian (DAAS-PG), supports the County’s ongoing commitment to ensuring veterans receive the benefits they earned through service to our nation.
“The goal of bringing these resources to Barstow is to make it easier for veterans to access their benefits,” said VA Director Matt Knox. “Many of the clients served by DAAS-PG are veterans who may be on fixed incomes, so the additional veterans assistance will make a huge difference in their lives.”
Starting Feb. 20, VA Veterans Service Officers will provide benefit claims assistance at the Barstow DAAS-PG office at 760 East Virginia Way from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the third Thursday of every month. Staff can assist veterans with filing claims for U.S. Veterans Affairs disability, pension, job training, and educational benefits. There is no need to schedule an appointment; veterans will receive assistance on a first-come, first-served basis.
“We look forward to strengthening our partnership with Veterans Affairs and the opportunity to expand comprehensive services to Barstow area veterans at a single, accessible location,” said DAAS-PG Director Sharon Nevins.
In addition to the new office hours in Barstow, veterans may also receive County VA claims assistance Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., by calling 909-382-3290.
Comprehensive Support for Veterans
San Bernardino County Veterans Affairs is dedicated to helping veterans and their families access the full range of benefits they have earned. The department provides expert guidance and representation through its Veteran Service Officers (VSOs), who specialize in helping veterans navigate the following benefits:
- Disability compensation for service-related injuries.
- Pension benefits for veterans with limited incomes or non-service-connected disabilities.
- Education assistance, including the California College Fee Waiver.
- Enrollment in VA healthcare programs.
- VA and CalVet home loan benefits.
- Burial benefits and military records assistance.
Additional support includes help with obtaining California Veterans ID cards, specialty license plates, employment resources, and benefits related to Agent Orange exposure, as well as small business assistance programs.
Can’t Make It In Person?
If you are unable to visit the Barstow location, County VA also offers a convenient call-in service. Same-day phone interviews with a VSO are available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Simply call 909-382-3290 to get started.
For more information about San Bernardino County Veterans Affairs and its wide range of services, visit their website at VA.SBCounty.gov.