Subscribe!
RI Veterans: Did you know? 04.07.24 (Events, Disability support, more…) – John A. Cianci
by John A. Cianci, contributing writer, veterans issues
A wonderful Fourth of July – Independence Day to all!
Questions from our readers
Q: – My dad is a veteran and is a 100% disabled veteran. He needs nursing home care. What is he eligible for from the VA to help pay for nursing home care? Cindy, North Providence
A: – He is eligible for FREE nursing home care thru the VA because he is receiving at least 70% or more monthly VA disability compensation. Step 1 – Contact VA Office of Community Care, 401-273-7100 ext. 13015, and ask for the representative who approves nursing home care for a veteran who is eligible for FREE nursing home care.
As of May 2024, here is the list of Providence VAMC Community Nursing Homes approved long-term facilities in RI.
1. Respiratory and Rehabilitation of RI, 10 Woodland Dr. Coventry RI, (401) 821-0260.
2. Bayview-VCA, 860 N Quidnessett Rd, North Kingstown RI, (401) 884-1802
3. Morgan Health Center, 80 Morgan Ave. Johnston RI, (401) 944-7800
4. Orchard View Manor, 135 Tripps Lane, Riverside RI, (401) 438-2250
5. Summits Common, 99 Hillside Ave. Providence RI (401) 574-4800
6. Heritage Hill Rehabilitation , 80 Douglas Pike, Smithfield RI (401) 231-2700
7. Crysrtal Lake, 999 S. Main Str. Pascoag RI (401) 568-3091
Additionally, your dad is eligible for FREE nursing home care at the Rhode Island Veteran Home, Meracom Ave. Bristol RI, (401) 253-8000.
VETTIP: The Rhode Island Veterans Home is a state run facility. Veterans with a VA rating of 70% or more, or a rated disability that requires skilled nursing home care care is FREE. In addition, eligibility includes other veterans who have a honorable discharge, 90 days active duty during a time of war (the veteran 90 days does not need to be in a war zone, as long as he served 90 days active duty), and a RI resident for 2 consecutive years prior to date of application, or joined the service from RI (this would be noted on the veteran’s DD214).
In addition, the VA offers numerous FREE programs for veterans who wish to remain living at home. Contact VA Providence Office of Community Care, (401) 273-7100, ext. 13015 to inquire on FREE home services offered to your dad because he is eligible for FREE nursing home care.
Example, have several friends whose dad is a veteran and eligible for FREE nursing home care. Instead of skilled nursing home, a plan was put together to provide needed care for the veteran to remain living at home. For both friends, the VA allocated 35 hours per week of CNA services, along with other needed services to be provided at home.
Another program, is VA Caregiver Support Program, which pays a family caregiver with a non-taxable stipend. In addition, caregiver could be eligible for medical programs for themselves. In layman’s terms, a family member or friend could be paid a stipend from $500 to $2500 a month to care for a loved one.
VETTIP – If you are a veteran and receiving 70% or more VA disability compensation, more than likely, you can get a caregiver approved, if you meet the requirements. The Italian American War Veterans of US provides FREE assistance to help navigate and complete necessary paperwork, request for assistance call (401) 677-9838 or email [email protected]
From the VA:
1. What is VA Caregiver Support Program? The VA recognizes the important role of family caregivers in supporting the health and wellness of Veterans. Eligible caregiver enrolled in the support program can qualify for a monetary compensation stipend that helps compensate the caregiver as a role in helping the veteran with their needs.
2. Am I eligible for the program of comprehensive assistance for family caregivers? You may be eligible if you and the veteran you’re caring for meets all of the requirements.
3. Eligibility requirements for family caregiver. Family caregiver must be at least 18 years old and at least one of these must be true for you: 1. You must be either a spouse, son, daughter, parent, stepfamily member, or extended family member of the Veteran, or 2. Someone who lives full-time with the Veteran, or is willing to do so if designated as a family caregiver.
4. Eligibility requirements for veteran. All of these must be true for the Veteran you’re caring for:
The Veteran must have a VA disability rating (individual or combined) of 70% or higher.
The Veteran’s service-connected disabilities must have been caused or made worse by their active-duty service during one of these periods of time.
5. What are personal care services? These are services the eligible Veteran needs from another person. They include care or assistance to support the Veteran’s: Health and well-being
Everyday personal needs like feeding, bathing, and dressing, safety, protection, or instruction in their daily living environment.
6. How many caregivers can the eligible Veteran appoint? Veteran can appoint a Primary Family Caregiver (the main caregiver), and up to two Secondary Family Caregivers (people who serve as backup support to the primary caregiver when needed).
7. Eligible primary and secondary family caregivers can receive; caregiver education and training, mental health counseling, travel, lodging, and financial assistance when traveling with the veteran to receive care.
8. Eligible primary family caregivers may also receive; a monthly stipend (payment), access to health care benefits through the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs (CHAMPVA). If you don’t already qualify for care or services under another health care plan, and at least 30 days per year of respite care for the veteran.
9. Can all Caregivers receive the stipend? No. Only the designated primary family caregiver of an eligible Veteran is entitle to receive a stipend. There can be only one primary family caregiver designated at a time.
10. Will my stipend be taxable income? No. the stipend is a VA enhanced service and is not considered taxable income.
11. What if the Veteran isn’t enrolled in VA health care yet? If the Veteran isn’t yet enrolled in VA health care, or is on active duty and undergoing a medical discharge, they’ll first need to apply for VA health care benefits (VA Form 10-10EZ).
12. What if the Veteran I’m caring for doesn’t meet the eligibility criteria for this program? Family caregivers of Veterans who aren’t eligible for this program may still be able to get support and resources. The VA Caregiver Support Program consists of 2 programs: this Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC) and another program called the Program of General Caregiver Support Services (PGCSS).
To learn more, you can: For more information about the Program of General Caregiver Support Services click, here. Or call the Caregiver Support Line at 855-260-3274, Monday through Friday 0800AM to 0800PM ET. You can also discuss your options with your local Caregiver support Coordinator (CSC), click here to locate your local coordinator.
Providence VA Caregiver Support Coordinator, (401) 273-7100 ext 13383.
How do I apply for this program?
• You can apply by mail:
Fill out a joint application for the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers VA Form 10-10CG. Mail the form and any supporting document to: Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers, Health Eligibility Center, 2957 Clairmont Road NE Suite 200, Atlanta, GA 30329-1647
• In person: Bring your completed VA Form 10-10CG to your local VA medical center’s Caregiver Support Coordinator. To find the name of your local coordinator click, here. If you need help filling out the form, you can contact your local coordinator, or call our main VA information line at 877-222-8387.
For more information about VA Caregiver Support Program, please follow the links below:
VA Caregiver Support Program – Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers
https://www.caregiverfinanciallegal.va.gov/legal-and-financial-planning-services/
https://www.caregiverfinanciallegal.va.gov/
___
Events
August 2, 2024 – Rhode Island National Guard Retiree Reunion This year’s reunion will be at the Quonset Officers Club, 200 Lt. James Brown Rd. N. Kingston, RI 02852. If anyone knows of other retirees who may not have access to a computer please pass on this information. As always, spouses, friends and guests are always welcome. The buffet cost will be $35.50pp. Cut off date for payment will be 30 July. Checks can now be sent to: Make checks payable to: Bob Antonelli and mail to 9 Hurlburt Ave, Johnston, RI 02919. Questions/concerns, contact Bob Antonelli at [email protected] – Cell: 401-837-6028/401-996-3764
August 5, 2026 – 9:00 to 11:00 Federal Hill Veteran Coffee House, ROMA, 311 Atwells Ave, Providence RI. Event sponsored by Italian American War Veterans of US/ Dept. of RI. Free REFRESHMENTS, pastries and calzones for all veterans and guest throughout the event.
August 12, 2024 Monday, Victory Day Celebration honoring our World War II Veterans . 2 locations, Perella’s Ristornate, Metcom Ave and Dan’s Place, West Greenwich. The event is sponsored by Italian American War Veterans of US, and will include FREE DINNER for all World War II Veterans and their families. WWII veterans can reserve an entire table for his family and friends. More information contact ITAM at (401) 677-9838 or email [email protected]
Saturday, Aug. 24: Narragansett Town Beach, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.; Veteran Surf Session by Soldiers Surf. Equipment (surfboards and wetsuits), surf instruction and lunch are provided to veterans and active-duty service members at no charge. Go to soldierssurf.com to register or volunteer. For further details, email Mike Tubridy at [email protected].
August 28, 2024, Wednesday 500PM Rosario Club ITAM Meeting and FREE dinner for ALL ITAM members and invited guest. Monthly dinner will pay tribute to Rhode Island veteran, PFC Anthony John Sivo, who gave the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the Vietnam War.
Saturday, Sept. 14, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Veterans Resource Fair at Schofield Armory, 705 New London Ave., Cranston. Organized by Ocean State Unit 118 of Military Women Across the Nation (MWAN), the event is open to all veterans and their families. Representatives from various providers, such as the VA, VA Hospital, and Social Security, will provide information and answer questions. For details, call retired Col. Patty Ryan at (401) 369-1280 or email her at [email protected].
___
VETERANS VOLUNTEER!
Italian American War Veterans of US (ITAM) Volunteer Opportunities:
Leave No Veteran Alone Program – Monday and Saturday, ITAM seeks volunteers to meet up at designated nursing homes to meet and socialize with veterans living at the facility. We schedule the facilities 30 to 60 days in advance. Volunteers socialize with veterans and TRY TO SPOIL them with refreshments we provide. Point of contact, Wendy Cianci, assistant (401) 677-9838.
August 28, 2024, 4:30 – 6:00 – Rosarion Club, Providence RI Monthly End of the month dinner for members and their guest of the Italian American War Veterans of US. Invited guest is the family of PFC Anthony John Sivo, KIA Vietnam in 1968.
___
RI Boots to Bushels – Summer Workshop Series
Boots to Bushels Summer Workshop Series started on May 15th and will run until September 25, 2024, Wednesdays, 9:00 AM-11:00 AM. Calling all beginning farmers, military veterans, and those interested in pursuing a career in agriculture. Join us for hands-on learning at the URI Agronomy Farm this summer. Workshops will cover risk management topics ranging from methods to mitigate climate change, sustainable pest and disease management, cover crops and more!
Each workshop is $10.00/per person. NO REFUNDS Register by clicking here. Each workshop takes place from 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. at URI Agronomy Farm – 30 Thirty Acre Pond Rd, Kingston, RI 02881
WORKSHOP TOPICS
July 31, 2024: Weeds: Identification and management and DIY tool workshop
August 14, 2024: Soil Health: Soil testing, Understanding your soil tests and fertility
August 28, 2024: Sustainable Pest and Disease Management: Scouting, pest and disease identification (field walk), management methods, backpack sprayer demo
September 11, 2024: Produce Safety: harvest, wash and pack
September 25, 2024: Soil Health: Cover cropping, crop rotation and mulching
QUESTIONS? Contact Tricia Lourenco Boucher by emailing [email protected]. This program is supported by USDA/NIFA under Award Number 2023-70027-40447.
___
Providence Children’s Museum offers free admission to active military families
Providence Children’s Museum (PCM) participates in the Blue Star Museums program this summer. The national initiative, a collaboration between the National Endowment for the Arts, Blue Star Families, and the Department of Defense, provides free admission to all currently serving U.S. military personnel and their families from Armed Forces Day, through Labor Day, Monday, September 2, 2024.
The free admission program is available for those currently serving in the United States Military—Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, Navy, and Space Force, members of the Reserves, National Guard, U.S. Public Health Commissioned Corps, NOAA Commissioned Corps, and up to five family members. Qualified members must show a Geneva Convention common access card (CAC), DD Form 1173 ID card (dependent ID), DD Form 1173-1 ID card or the Next Generation Uniformed Services (Real) ID card for entrance into a participating Blue Star Museum.
Providence Children’s Museum serves children and adults of all backgrounds and from all communities. Its focus is on children, ages 1 to 11, and the adults who care for them by presenting hands-on, play-based exhibits and programs that explore arts, culture and science, technology, engineering, and math.
___
Free Help for Homeless Veterans
Veterans who are homeless or at risk of homelessness—and their family members, friends, and supporters—can make the call to or chat online with the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans, where trained counselors are ready to talk confidentially 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Who Can Call
- Veterans who are homeless or at risk of homelessness
- Family members, friends and supporters calling on behalf of Veterans
- VA Medical Centers and other VA facilities and staff
- Federal, state and local partners
- Community agencies and providers who serve Veterans who are homeless
Why Make the Call to 1-877-4AID VET (877-424-3838)
- It’s free and confidential
- You’ll get access to trained VA counselors
- It’s available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
- You’ll get information about VA homeless programs, health care and other services in your area
What Happens When Veterans Make the Call
- A trained VA staff member asks a few questions to find out what you need
- Then, you’re connected to the nearest VA staff person who can help
- What Happens When Others Make the Call
- Family members and non-VA providers receive information about available homeless programs and services
- They can keep their information confidential or leave contact information so staff can follow up
- VA’s Resources for Homeless and At-Risk Veterans
- VA offers a wide array of services to help homeless and at-risk Veterans.
___
Free Golf, Goddard Park Golf Course Fee Exemption for Totally Disabled Veterans:
Rhode Island resident Veterans who have a 100% permanent and total, service-connected disability rating from the VA are exempt from paying any fees to play golf at the Goddard Park Golf Course. For more information call the Clubhouse at Goddard Memorial State Park from April 1st through the 3rd Saturday in November at 401-884-9834 or year-round at Division Headquarters at 401-667-6200.
Free Rhode Island Hunting and Fishing Licenses for 100% Disabled Veterans: A Veteran who has a 100% disability rating from the VA is eligible for free Rhode Island hunting and fishing licenses.
No cost licenses are available if you are:
· over 65 AND a Rhode Island resident
· a veteran with 100% disability status from the Department of Veterans Affairs
· a person with 100% total disability status from the Social Security Administration
To apply in person at DEM, please bring a photo ID and an ORIGINAL DOCUMENT OF THE FINAL DECISION(S). Office hours are 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. (directions)
To apply by mail, please complete an application and mail the application and a copy of your photo ID and the ORIGINAL DOCUMENT OF THE FINAL DECISION(S). Please allow two weeks for processing.
The address to obtain your license in person or by mail is:
DEM Licensing Office
235 Promenade Street, Room 360
Providence, RI 02908
(401) 222-3576
To purchase online, you will be required to certify that you have an ORIGINAL DOCUMENT OF THE FINAL DECISION(S). You will also be required to enter the date the decision expires. The Department will audit compliance with the certification and may, at any time, request a copy of the current DOCUMENT OF THE FINAL DECISION(S). Failure to submit the documentation by the date requested may result in the suspension of your fishing and hunting license. Also, Rhode Island General Law 11-18-1 prohibits giving false documents to an agent, employee, or public official. The penalty is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 or imprisonment up to one year.
Rhode Island Hunting and Fishing Benefits for Service Members and Veterans: Rhode Island offers several hunting and fishing benefits to Service members and Veterans. A short description of each is listed below. Applicants are required to show documentation proving eligibility when they apply:
· Active-Duty Service members – Military ID
· Veterans – DD214
· Disabled Veterans – VA Disability Certification Letter ( Contact VA office)
Applicants can apply online at Rhode Island Outdoors, in person at the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management, Office of Boating Registration and Licenses in Providence (Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.), at an Authorized In-Person Sales Agent, or they can mail applications to:
Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management
235 Promenade Street, Room 360
Providence, RI 02908
Phone: 401-222-3576
Free Rhode Island State Park Passes for 100% Disabled Veterans: Rhode Island offers the State Park Disability Pass for use at any state-owned recreational facility to disabled Veterans who have a 100% service-connected disability rating from the VA.
The State Park Disability Pass authorizes free admission and parking but does not exempt the following:
· Licensing fees
· Camping fees
· Picnic table fees
· Specialized facility use fees
· Use of equestrian areas
· Performing art centers
· Game fields fees
· Mule shed fees
If the disabled Veteran cannot drive, the vehicle transporting the Veteran will not be charged.
Veterans must apply in person at the Rhode Island State Parks and Recreation Headquarters and are required to show official documentation (dated within the past year) from the VA that states they have a 100% service-connected disability.
Rhode Island State Parks and Recreation Headquarters
1100 Tower Hill Road
North Kingstown, RI 02852
Phone: 401-667-6200
Email: [email protected]
___
RESOURCES & ongoing groups
Below are all the groups the Providence Vet Center is currently offering. As this list changes, I will provide updates. Please send me any questions that you may have, thank you for your time!
***All Vet Center Groups require that the Veteran be enrolled with the Vet Center prior to attending. To check eligibility or for questions, please contact the Vet Center at (401) 739-0167 or reach out to our Veteran Outreach Program Specialist (VOPS)
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Group (PTSD) – 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month from 2:00 – 3:30 p.m. (Group is only active September through May)
Global War on Terrorism (GWOT) and Vietnam Veterans PTSD Group – 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month from 9:30 – 11:00 a.m.
Vietnam Veteran PTSD Group – 1st and 3rd Monday of the month from 10:30 – 12:00 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Art Expression Group – Every Thursday from 9:00 – 12:00 p.m.
Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF)/Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF)/Operation New Dawn (OND) Group – Every Wednesday from 11:00 – 12:00 p.m.
Stress Management – Every Thursday from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m.
Low Impact Walking Group – Every Tuesday from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m.
Guitar 4 Veterans – Every Wednesday from 7:00-8:30 p.m.
Monday Mindfulness Group – Every Monday from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Yoga Group – Every Friday from 12:00 – 1:00 p.m.
Moral Injury Group – Every Friday from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Modern Warrior Support Group – 1st and 3rd Monday of the month from 2:30 – 4:00 pm.
___
Discounts for Veterans
Providence Children’s Museum Offers Free Admission to Active Military Families This Summer
Providence Children’s Museum (PCM) announces its participation in the Blue Star Museums program this summer. The national initiative, a collaboration between the National Endowment for the Arts, Blue Star Families, and the Department of Defense, provides free admission to all currently serving U.S. military personnel and their families from Armed Forces Day, Saturday, May 18, 2024, through Labor Day, Monday, September 2, 2024.
Services
No Problem Plumbing and Heating LLC 15% military discount, ask for Ron Gaynor, (401) 568-6666. Veterans must provide proof of eligibility with a VA Card, VA ID Card, or RI State license with veteran identification.
Restaurants
Applebee’s – Military Discount. With more than 2,000 locations, Applebee’s is a family grill restaurant. Applebee’s gives 10% off for active duty and veteran. Last verified 07/31/2022.
Denny’s – Hartford Ave, Johnston offers 10% discount for veterans and active duty. Denny’s is a table service diner-style restaurant chain. Last verified 07/31/2022.
Outback Steakhouse – 10% Discount to active and veterans. Last verified 07/28/2021
99 Restaurant & Pub – The 99 Restaurant & Pub offers a 10% military discount to members of Veterans Advantage. Available at select locations only. Bring valid military ID
Retailers
Advance Auto Parts – 10% for Active Duty, Veterans, and families. Last verified 07/28/2021
Bass Pro Shops – Offers a 5% discount to active-duty military, reservists, and National Guard. Sign up and verify your status online or bring your military ID when you shop at your nearest Bass Pro store (source).
BJs Wholesale – Reduced membership fee. BJ’s offers all military personnel over 25% off their Membership. Last verified 07/28/2021
Lowes – Enroll in the Lowe’s Military Discount Program to activate your 10% discount – “Our way of saying Thank You” to our active duty, retired and military veterans and their spouses with a 10% discount on eligible items. Verification of your military status is fast and easy through our partner
GameStop – is offering a 10% in-store military discount on all pre-owned products, collectibles, and select new products. Available to current and former military members who bring any valid proof of service or when they verify through ID.me
Home Depot – Offers a 10% off military discount on regularly priced merchandise for in-store purchases for active duty, retired military, and reservists at participating locations. Customers are required to show a valid government-issued military ID card to redeem this offer.
Kohls – 15% discount offers for active military, veterans, retirees, and their immediate family members a 15% discount on purchases made on Mondays, in store only. In order to receive the military discount, eligible customers must present proper identification along with any tender type.
Jiffy Lube – HONORING VETERANS ALL DAY EVERY DAY! – We didn’t want to wait for Veteran’s Day to express our appreciation and gratitude for your service. That’s why every Team Car Care owned and operated Jiffy Lube® service center is offering our BEST discount of 10% OFF as a “Thank You” to the men and women of our Armed Forces for their service to our country. *Disclaimer*- I.D. required. No coupon is required. Excludes batteries and brakes, alignment, and diagnostic services. Available only at 3 select locations: Tioque Ave, Coventry RI – Bald Hill Road, Warwick RI – Park Ave, Cranston RI
Michaels – offers a 15% off military discount on the entire in-store purchase including sale items for active duty, retired military, guard, reservists, veterans, and family members. How to get: 1. Create an account. Log in to Michaels Rewards. 2. Get verified. Provide your military information to get verified, instantly. 3. Go shopping! To use your discount online and in store, just sign into your account or provide your Michaels Rewards phone number at checkout.
O’Reilly Auto Parts – 10% discount on in store items for Active Duty, Veterans and families. Last verified 3/4/21.
___
If you are a retailer and or a veteran aware of a business not listed above, please forward to: [email protected]: the business’s name, location, and military and veteran discount offered.
If you have an event, meeting, other pertinent veteran information, or email questions or help needed, contact the Italian American War Veteran Service Officer, John A Cianci, [email protected], ITAM Office 1-(401)677-9VET(9838)
___
To read all columns in this series go to: https://rinewstoday.com/john-a-cianci/
John A. Cianci is a Veteran Service Officer. Retired, U.S. Army MSgt., Persian Gulf War and Iraq War combat theater.
Cianci, a combat disabled Veteran, served in Desert Shield/Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom. His awards include Bronze Star, Combat Action Badge, Good Conduct, and others.
Cianci belongs to numerous veterans organizations – Italian American War Veterans, American Legion, Veterans of Foreign War, and many more organizations. He is an active volunteer assisting veterans to navigate federal and state benefits they have earned. He is Department of Rhode Island Department Commander Italian American War Veterans and Veteran Service Officer.
He is a graduate of Roger Williams University (BS Finance), UCONN business school* (Entrepreneur Bootcamp for Veterans), Solar Energy International Residential, Commercial and Battery Based Photovoltaic Systems certificate programs, numerous certificates from the Department of Defense renewable energy programs, including graduate of the Solar Ready Vets Program.
What, if any, benefits am I entitled to if I didn’t serve during wartime? I served from 1957-1960.