What types of services are available?
There are two primary types of services available at the VSC. In addition to filing claims and requesting Military records for veterans, Temporary Financial Assistance is available to those Honorably Discharged veterans who are residents of Lucas County, who qualify, and who provide the documents to the VSC staff that are required by Ohio State Statute.
Veterans Assistance
Navigating the Federal VA can be challenging. Knowing what and when to file and what forms to use with the correct wording can be overwhelming. That is where we step in. We have state and nationally trained and accredited Veterans Service Officers ready to assist you. Here at the Lucas County Veterans Service Commission, we speak the VA language for you. We are happy to answer your questions and assist you in filing your claims and paperwork. You can call our office and a Service Officer will be happy to contact you to see how we can assist.
Financial Relief
We know that sometimes life gets difficult. In those times we are here to assist with emergency financial aid. For Lucas County Veterans who qualify, our office can help with things like rent or mortgage payments, Auto Payments or repair, food, utilities and many other financial hardships you may be facing. Please contact our office for more details.
Estate Arrangements
You may have questions about what benefits are available for your estate and affairs as well as end of life care. Our Service Officers are ready to answer the varying questions you may have. From the VA’s grave marker program, burial in a National Cemetery to flags and so much more. Please contact our Office to speak with one of our highly trained Service Officers for more information.
In addition, our office does have an Indigent burial program to help low income veterans, or their spouses to deal with an unexpected loss. There are some restrictions and limitations so please contact our office for more information regarding this program. Please mention you are inquiring about the indigent burial program when calling.
Changing Minds
Changing minds is about alternative programs to assist our fellow veterans in becoming a healthier you. Some of these programs include Guitars for Vets, H.O.O.V.E.S and Miles for Freedom and we are constantly looking to find more programs to add to our list. With these and upcoming programs, we encourage you to check them out and one might be right for you in ways you never knew possible. Click below to go to our Changing Minds page where you will find more information on these programs.
VA Medical Transportation Services
The Lucas County VSC does assist with medical transportation to and from scheduled VA appointments. Please contact our office for more details and specific requests.
State Veterans Identification Cards (ID Cards)
In 2016 the State of Ohio authorized each County Veterans Service Commission in conjunction with the County Recorder’s Office to issue a State of Ohio Veterans Honorably Discharged Identification Card. These cards can be obtained in our office typically Monday through Friday except on holidays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Lucas County Veterans Service Commission part of the Veterans Administration?
No. The Veterans Service Commission is a Lucas County Department / Agency totally funded by Lucas County. While certain members of the VSC staff (Veteran Service Officers) file claims to the VA on behalf of veterans and veterans’ families and request certified copies of veterans’ Military records, they are not VA employees.
What types of services are available?
There are two primary types of services available at the VSC. In addition to filing claims and requesting Military records for veterans, Temporary Financial Assistance is available to those Honorably Discharged veterans who are residents of Lucas County, who qualify, and who provide the documents to the VSC staff that are required by Ohio State Statute. Examples of assistance are: Food Vouchers; Rent, Mortgage, Utility; Medical Prescription Funds; Transportation to VA Medical Facilities.
How does a veteran or a veteran’s family access the services of the Veterans Service Commission?
The veteran or veteran’s family should call the VSC Office (419) 213-6090 and tell the VSC staff member what their need is (i.e., Financial Assistance or VA Claim). Then, they need to accurately and clearly respond to the questions asked by the VSC staff member. If a Service Officer or Financial Assistance Investigator is available, the caller will be transferred to them. Otherwise, the information provided by the veteran or veteran’s family will be given to the next available Service Officer or Investigator, who will return the call.
A veteran could walk in for assistance. But, all staff members may be engaged in assisting other veterans. An initial call in is the best option.
How often does the VSC Board meet?
VSC Commissioners board meetings are held the 2nd and 4th Mondays of each month at 9:30 am at the LCSVC Conference Room at 2595 Arlington Ave
