Three lesser-known benefits from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)

 

Here are three lesser-known benefits from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) — what they are, why they matter, and how you apply for them.

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1. Adapted Housing Grants (SAH / SHA)

What it is:
If you have a qualifying service-connected disability, the VA offers grants to help you buy, build, or adapt a home for your needs — e.g., ramps, wider doors, accessible bathrooms, or even building a new home. Benefits+3Kiplinger+3VETERANS VALOR - VA Claims Consulting+3
Why many miss it:
These are more niche than typical benefits like healthcare or education. The eligibility criteria are specific (e.g., loss or loss-of-use of limbs, blindness, severe burns). Veterans Affairs+1
How to apply / Website / Link:

• Main info page: VA Housing Assistance – Disability Housing Grants Veterans Affairs

• To apply: Apply for an adapted housing grant (online or paper) Veterans Affairs+1

• You can use VA Form 26-4555: Application in Acquiring Specially Adapted Housing or Special Home Adaptation Grant. Veterans Affairs+1
  Tips & notes:

• Make sure your disability rating/decision supports the required criteria. Benefits+1

• You do not always have to use the full grant amount in one year — you may use portions over multiple years. Veterans Affairs

• Even if you already own a house, you may be eligible to adapt it. Benefits

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2. Caregiver Support Program – Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC)

What it is:
If a veteran has a serious injury or illness related to their service, their family caregiver may qualify for the VA’s program offering support services: a monthly stipend, health care through CHAMPVA for the caregiver (if applicable), training, respite, and other resources. Veterans Affairs+1
Why many miss it:
The focus is often on the veteran’s benefits; but caregiving support is a different dimension and not always front-page in benefit guides.
How to apply / Website / Link:

• Info & eligibility: Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers Veterans Affairs

• Application: You can apply online or download VA Form 10-10CG (Application for the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers). Veterans Affairs+1
  Tips & notes:

• The veteran must be enrolled in VA health care or being medically discharged to qualify. Veterans Affairs

• There’s a distinction between the “General Caregiver Support Services (PGCSS)” (less formal) and the PCAFC (more comprehensive). Caregiver VA

• Make sure to gather all documentation about the veteran’s injury/condition and caregiver role.

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3. Clothing Allowance & Adaptive Equipment / Vehicle Grants

What it is:
Though it sounds small, these benefits help veterans who have service-connected disabilities that require prosthetic or orthopedic appliances, skin conditions that damage clothing, or adaptive equipment in vehicles. For example:

• The VA clothing allowance helps replace damaged or worn-out clothing due to service-connected disability. Kiplinger+1

• Automobile Allowance & Adaptive Equipment: If your disability affects your ability to drive, the VA may help with a one-time payment for a specially equipped vehicle or adaptive equipment. Kiplinger+1
  Why many miss it:
  These benefits seem minor compared to large assistance programs, so people may not realise they’re eligible. Also, conditions like needing a specially equipped vehicle might be assumed to be covered by other programs and overlooked.
  How to apply / Website / Link:
  While there isn’t a single “clothing allowance page” link cited here, the VA main benefits page gives the umbrella context and you’d want to contact your local VA regional office or benefits counselor. For example:

• General page for service-member and veteran benefits: VA Service Member Benefits Veterans Affairs

• For detailed vehicle equipment and adaptive housing, see the adaptive housing grants page above (since these kinds of adaptive equipment/vehicles are in the same umbrella of “adaptation” benefits).
  Tips & notes:

• Even if you think the benefit is “small”, it still adds up and you deserve to claim it.

• Document how the disability damages clothing or how adaptive equipment is required — that evidence helps your claim.

• Ask your local veteran’s service officer (VSO) for help — they often know lesser-used benefits.

A Tribute of Resilience and Honor

 

A Tribute of Resilience and Honor

On this solemn anniversary of September 11, 2001, we pause to remember the lives lost and the families forever changed on that tragic day. Yet even in the midst of sorrow, what stands out most is the unshakable resilience of the American spirit. Out of the smoke and rubble rose courage, unity, and a determination that continues to define us as a nation.

To our veterans and military personnel, we owe a debt that words alone can never repay. When our nation was wounded, you stepped forward—many leaving behind comfort and family—to defend freedom and protect the innocent. Your service reminds us that America’s strength lies not only in its ideals, but in the men and women willing to stand guard over them.

This day is not only about remembering tragedy; it is also about celebrating perseverance. It is about honoring those who gave their lives, those who served in the years since, and those who continue to carry the torch of liberty. We remember the bravery of first responders who rushed into danger, the selflessness of ordinary citizens who became heroes, and the enduring faith of a people who refused to be broken.

September 11 will always be a reminder of our shared vulnerability—but also of our shared resilience. As we reflect, let us recommit ourselves to unity, gratitude, and hope. Let us honor the sacrifice of our veterans and service members not only with our words, but by striving to live with the same courage, integrity, and devotion they have shown.

Today, we stand together as one nation—humbled by loss, strengthened by sacrifice, and uplifted by the knowledge that even in our darkest hours, the American spirit shines bright.

Military REBOOT’s New Women-Only Course

A Path to Healing: Military REBOOT’s New Women-Only Course

Big Rapids, MI — On September 15, 2025, the Big Rapids community will launch a powerful new resource: the 12-week, women-only Military REBOOT trauma recovery course. This faith-based and peer-led program is designed for female veterans, active-duty service members, first responders, and their families, offering a safe place to begin healing from trauma.

What Makes It Unique

Unlike traditional support groups, the program is peer-led by women with firsthand experience, ensuring an atmosphere of trust, confidentiality, and empathy. Organizers emphasize that “words don’t leave this area,” creating a safe environment where participants can process their journeys openly.

Military REBOOT has proven results nationwide. Participants often report stronger relationships, decreased reliance on medication, and lower rates of depression and suicide. The course is open not only to service members themselves but also to their spouses and families—recognizing that trauma affects everyone in the home.

Why It Matters

Women now make up the fastest-growing segment of the U.S. veteran population, yet they face unique challenges, including higher rates of PTSD. Programs like this one provide a much-needed space where women can process trauma in a supportive community tailored to their experiences.

By combining peer support with faith-based teaching, REBOOT addresses the mental, emotional, and spiritual dimensions of recovery. With over 25,000 graduates nationwide, it has helped thousands of service members and first responders rediscover purpose and resilience.

How to Join

Classes will meet weekly from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at 430 N. Third Ave., Big Rapids. New participants are welcome through the third week of the course.

Anyone interested can register or learn more at RebootRecovery.com/join.

A Beacon of Hope

For many women in uniform, the path to recovery can feel lonely. This new REBOOT course is more than just a class—it’s a community, a place of trust, and a step toward renewed strength and peace.