Annual Veteran Benefit Expo connects Yuma Veterans to crucial resources

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - Veterans in Yuma had the opportunity to access crucial resources that could improve their lives at the annual Veteran Benefit Expo.

The event, held at the local Vet Center, brought together organizations offering support in areas such as healthcare, education, home loans, and business assistance.

Many Veterans struggle to navigate the complex systems designed to support them, making events like this essential. The expo connected veterans with services ranging from disability compensation to job opportunities, all in one place.

Organizers say the goal is to ensure that every veteran who walks through the doors leaves with useful information.

"They know that when they come in, if they're talking to one of us, we're going to be able to refer them to what their needs are," said Lorena Garcia, Veterans Regional Coordinator with the Arizona Department of Economic Security.

This year's expo came at a critical time, as recent contract cuts have impacted veteran services nationwide. Bill Schlerf, who works for the Arizona Department of Economic Security, emphasized the importance of the event.

"We do this benefit expo once a year, and then we also do a big hiring event once a year. But I like this one the best because it's at the Vet Center. So we get all kinds. We get homeless, we get others who aren't really looking for work, not really anything, but they can come down here and talk to other vets. So it's just another way to get veterans to come together," Schlerf shared.

Veterans who attended said the event helped them discover benefits they may not have known about.

"There's so many veterans here in Yuma, and there are tons of benefits being offered if you just take the time to really inquire," Flores added.

For those who missed the event, experts recommend reaching out to the Arizona Department of Veterans' Services for assistance in connecting with available benefits.