Veterans Support

LVMAC Tidbit — Ever Hear of Flatline Fighters?

Flatline Fighter LogoA new organization is arriving on the Lehigh Valley scene, called Flatline Fighters.  No, it is not a martial arts group, but instead the brainchild of its founder, Anthony Droz, a current war, ex-Marine (if there is such a thing), who believes an Outward Bound-like approach can often help combat veterans and others who have experienced deep, traumatic events.

It is still in its infancy, not fully formed or developed, but Droz has the potential of succeeding and will speak to the Council on 16 April (see our homepage) on what he plans and where he will need assistance.  Those who have a similar interest or need ought consider attending.  Our community has tremendous capabilities and heart.  It’s awareness of the real needs and how to help is what is lacking, most of it unsensational. (more…)

By LVMAC, ago

LVMAC News — LVMAC Is Getting Involved with PA 2-1-1 East

United Way of Lancaster Asks for Assistance

United Way 2-1-1As a result of discussions within our newly formed Lehigh Valley Homeless Veterans Action Committee (LVHVAC) about the loss of the local Red Cross’ Valley Wide Helpline, which had been a valuable resource to the local social services community, and because it considers a common telephone resource line for homeless and near-homeless veterans and their families an essential service, LVMAC invited Toni McCuistion, Director for PA 2-1-1 East, United Way of Lancaster, to speak on the topic of “2-1-1 Service in the Lehigh Valley, How It Can Help Veterans, How You Can Help It” at its March 19 Council business meeting. (more…)

By LVMAC, ago

LVMAC Tidbit — Hammer Training to Support Lehigh Valley Veterans

Hammer Training & Fitness Fundraiser Flyer 22March2014

Hammer Training and Fitness at 420 Allentown Drive, Allentown, PA 18109 is doing a good thing on March 22 between the hours of 4 p.m. and 10 p.m.  It is conducting a fundraiser for veterans (using LVMAC as the recipient to ensure the money raised is locally used) while also providing an entertaining event where veterans and others can gather at ease and mingle. The event consists of a seminar, a social, and exhibition bouts.  The latter two events are free, but donations are encouraged.  The social begins at 5 p.m. followed by the sparring matches starting at 7 p.m. (more…)

By LVMAC, ago

LVMAC Tidbit – Social Security Promises Expedited Veterans Disability Claims

Social Security Disability ClaimMany veterans with a VA-rated disability are unaware they may also be entitled to a Social Security benefit program known as Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).

Like the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) service-connected compensation program, it too has come under congressional scrutiny for its processing times. However, on 19 February Social Security Administration (SSA) officials announced plans to expedite disability claims for individuals with a VA approved, 100 percent disability rating. (more…)

By LVMAC, ago

Forward Observer — Their American Dream is Homelessness?

One Way You Can Help Your Homeless Veterans Locally – Find Them, Gather Them

LVMAC Poster Art 2005Not all who are homeless deserve their circumstance. Good families are affected nowadays. We of the Lehigh Valley are a hardy people, but living on the streets or in pioneer camps should not be our final option. It is an unfortunate reality nonetheless.

Pioneer Camp (courtesy of Clinic Valor Foundation)It seems doubly a shame for our community when one who has honorably served and actually fought for his or her country is found in such a condition. Whether it is this veteran’s pride or behavior, or a combination of both, that has led to the situation should not matter to us – we can always find a plausible excuse for inaction.

As the Lehigh Valley Military Affairs Council (LVMAC) activates its new Lehigh Valley Homeless Veterans Action Committee to attack veteran’s homelessness as a regional problem, one of its participants is already trying to get those in the most extreme of circumstances in from the “cold.”  VALOR Clinic Foundation, a new 501(c)(3) nonprofit now working its way down from the Bangor area into the wider Lehigh Valley, has taken up the mission of establishing routine stand downs in the Lehigh Valley. (more…)

By LVMAC, ago