FREEHOLD, NJ – Returning veterans have a wealth of resources available to them right in Monmouth County. Assistance and referral information about disability benefits, handicap parking, transportation, home health aides and housing can be obtained from the county's Disabilities Office.    

 

"The best way to thank our servicemen and women, as well as their families, for the sacrifices that they have made is to truly be there for them as they return home and anytime they reach out," said Freeholder Amy A. Mallet, liaison to the county's Human Services Department that oversees the Disabilities Office. "The county is trying different ways to connect with local veterans - our goal is to let our veterans know that we are here to help."

 

The Disabilities Office recently teamed up with the G.I. GO Fund and the New Jersey National Guard at a "Year of the Vet" Transition Fair held March 5 at the New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs' Headquarters at the Armory in Lawrenceville.

 

The Fair welcomed 3,000 veterans of the 50th Infantry Brigade Combat Team home from recent service in Iraq with an event that featured exhibits, information and referral services from employers, universities and government agencies.

 

"We understand that transition back into civilian life can be difficult and that we must do what we can to help our soldiers as they return home," said Mallet.  "This is especially important for those veterans who are also learning to live with a disability."

 

 

The G.I. GO Fund is a nonprofit charitable organization that provides transition assistance to veterans of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom, as well as support, recognition, and gratitude to all of our servicemen and women.  

 

The county's Disabilities Office, plans to participate in future transition fairs.  In the meantime, the office can be reached by calling 732-308-3770 or by logging onto www.visitmonmouth.com.
  

#     #     #