Returning Warrior Program
The Returning Warrior Program started in 2005 to financially assist Veterans transitioning back into the civilian community who were experiencing difficulty meeting their basic needs. The program is primarily for Veterans that are registered at the Phoenix VA Health Care System and are working with a social worker. Social workers will help make sure the Veteran is taking full advantage of their benefits and evaluate each request for assistance. Once approved, all checks are mailed directly to the payee (e.g., landlord, utility company).
Since funds are limited, requests are normally approved for
Rent and Mortgage assistance
Utility payments
Auto repair
Food
Transportation
Clothing
It is important that you enroll with the VA to make sure you receive the benefits you earned.
If you are currently enrolled at the VAMC or a VA Clinic, call the VA (602) 222-6550 to provide the name of your doctor and request an appointment with a social worker.
If you are not enrolled in the Phoenix VA Health Care System call (602) 277-5551 and dial x-6508 for the Eligibility desk. They will tell you what you need to bring To the Medical Center to register (e.g., DD 214, W-2). Phoenix VA Health Care System is located at 650 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix, AZ 85012 (enter at Third Street and Indian School Road for Eligibility Department.). Once you’re registered they will tell you how to make an appointment with a doctor and subsequently assign you a social worker.
Once you meet with the social worker, they will help review available resources and may suggest an application be submitted to the Returning Warrior program. They will help prepare and submit the request to the RW Administrator. If approved, the check will be mailed directly to the payee (e.g., landlord, utility company, etc.) Processing time is normally a week.
Returning Warriors Success Story
VMLC helped Iraqi Freedom Veteran Nick with air transportation to Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, D.C. At Walter Reed, Nick was fitted for a special new prosthetic leg after losing his right leg when an IED exploded near him in Iraq in 2007. Nick served as a Specialist in the Military Police for two years in Iraq before he was injured.
At Walter Reed doctors cast a mold of Nick’s left leg, and from that cast, they created a prosthetic right leg that looks just like his real leg, right down to the skin tone and hair.
CONTACT US
For more information on the VMLC, its services or how to get involved, please email us below.