RI Veterans: Did you know? 27.06.24 (VA benefits, mental health, resources, events) – John A. Cianci

by John A. Cianci, veterans writer

Questions from readers

Question 1: I am not qualified for VA health care, am I eligible for any VA benefits? Vince, North Providence

Answer: Vince, not sure when you applied and were denied, however, the VA expanded health care to thousands more veteran in March. A press release by the VA in March 2024, VA expanded eligibility for health care to millions more veteran.

Excerpts from March 2024 VA press release: The expansion of VA health care eliminates the “phased-in” approach called for by the PACT Act meaning that millions of veterans are now eligible for VA health care up to eight years earlier than written into law.

It’s one of the largest-ever expansions of veteran health care in the past 30 years. All veterans who were exposed to toxins and other hazards during military service at home or abroad are eligible.

The healthcare expansion also covers many veterans who never deployed as a part of a conflict but were still exposed to toxins or hazards while serving in the U.S.

To apply and learn more about VA healthcare, Veterans Affairs encourages all eligible veterans to visit VA.gov/PACT or call 1-800-MYVA411 (800-698-2411). If you applied in the past before March 2024, reapply, https://www.va.gov/find-forms/about-form-10-10ez/

Question 2: I have a bad discharge, am I eligible for any VA benefits? Steve, North Providence

Depending type of discharge on your DD214, determines your eligibility for VA benefits. According to VA website, mental health care is offered to ALL veterans —no matter your discharge status, service history, or eligibility for VA health care.

If you need support for a specific mental health problem—or if you’re having problems sleeping, controlling your anger, or readjusting to civilian life—you are not alone. The VA can help . 

To access free VA mental health services right away:

Call or walk in to any VA medical center—anytime, day or night.
Find your nearest VA health facility

Call or walk in to any Vet Center during clinic hours.
Find your nearest Vet Center

Call us at 877-222-8387. We’re here Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. ET. If you have hearing loss, call TTY: 800-877-8339.

You don’t need to be enrolled in VA health care to get care.
Learn more about accessing VA mental health services

To connect with other resources for Veterans and transitioning service members:

Visit the Department of Defense (DoD) Military OneSource website

Visit our mental health site for transitioning service members

If you need support for a specific mental health problem—or if you’re having problems sleeping, controlling your anger, or readjusting to civilian life—you are not alone. And we can help. Over 1.7 million Veterans received mental health services at VA last year. The VA  services range from peer support with other Veterans to counseling, therapy, medication, or a combination of these options. Our goal is to help you take charge of your treatment and live a full and meaningful life.

Summary of Benefit Eligibility Based On Discharge

Steve, you might want to contact VA and seek assistance to have your discharged reviewed. See below, recent rule change:

NEW RULE ALLOW VA TO CHANGE TYPE OF DISCHARGE FOR VA BENEFITS

A recent VA rule change (just a few days ago) allows the VA to review the veteran’s type of discharge, and based on this review, and only for VA benefits, the VA could reclassify the type of discharge, for VA purposes only.

Example, Mike from Fall River received a Other Than Honorable Discharge. Mike applied for VA benefits and asked the VA to review his discharge type, with the hope of getting it upgraded to General.

The VA reviews Mike’s discharge file, which revealed Mike was discharge for being a homosexual before the “Don’t ask, don’t tell” policy that became the rule. 

VETTIP:  Don’t ask, don’t tell,” introduced under the Clinton administration, was supposed to be a gentler approach, allowing LGBTQ people to serve as long as their sexual orientation remained hidden. Despite that promise, thousands of officers and enlisted service members were discharged.

Applying for Benefits and Your Character of Discharge

Generally, to receive VA benefits and services, the Veteran’s character of discharge or service must be under other than dishonorable conditions (e.g., honorable, under honorable conditions, general).  

However, individuals receiving undesirable, bad conduct, and other than honorable discharges may qualify for VA benefits depending on a determination made by VA.

The VA amended regulation a few day ago, June 25, 2024,  regulations regarding character of discharge determinations, expanding access to VA care and benefits for some former service members discharged under other than honorable conditions or by special court-martial. 

The new rule is effective as of June 25, 2024.

The new regulation expands access to care and benefits for certain former service members by:

The VA character of discharge determination does not change the Armed Forces’ characterization of service and has no effect on the former Service member’s military discharge status. The VA  determination is for VA benefits and services eligibility purposes only.

The encourage former service members with other than honorable and bad conduct discharges to apply for VA care and benefits today. The VA will carefully consider the circumstances of your discharge and determine if you are eligible.

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Fourth of July NOT Veteran Friendly

Like myself, most veterans are not comfortable with the unexpected sounds of fireworks.

An email content RINEWSTODAY received from a friend , Petrina Danardatu , UK:
Tips to safely celebrate the Fourth of July

Out of the nearly 18 million U.S. veterans, 25% have a service-connected sensory impairment, with tinnitus and hearing loss ranked among the most prevalent conditions  for which veterans receive benefits.  

The United States Department for Veterans Affairs (VA) is the largest employer of audiologists and speech-language pathologists in the country. Researchers at the VA work to find effective hearing treatments, and aim to alleviate veterans’ social and economic problems related to tinnitus and hearing loss.

As we enjoy the Fourth of July with lively parties and fireworks, Dr. Jenn Schumacher, an audiologist atReSound, offers her advice for celebrating with consideration for those whose hearing health was impacted while on active duty. 

Causes of tinnitus and hearing loss among veterans

The high rates of tinnitus—sounds you hear, like ringing or buzzing, that have no external source—and hearing loss among veterans can be attributed to several contributing factors. One is that veterans would’ve had more occupational exposure to loud noises, including gunfire and explosions. With 36% of veterans aged 50 to 70 years old, and 37% above 70 years old, many could be impacted by age-related hearing loss.

Safely celebrating the Fourth of July

Due to its spectacular fireworks shows and lively gatherings with family and friends, the Fourth of July may take the cake as the loudest holiday. For veterans struggling with their hearing health, it may be more difficult to participate in the festivities. However, there are several ways to help your loved ones with different hearing needs enjoy the day. 

Because loud noises can sometimes trigger episodes of tinnitus, it’s best to wear protective earplugs or ear muffs while watching the fireworks. Individuals should also take care to keep a safe distance from where the fireworks are being shot off: adults should maintain about 50 to 70 feet of distance, children should keep about 150 to 200 feet. 

Protecting your ears is important for everyone, regardless of the current state of your hearing health. Fireworks are dangerously loud if you are in close proximity to where they are being ignited and can damage your hearing, so every individual should consider wearing some form of ear protection. 

If the noise levels are too overwhelming, there’s no shame in excusing yourself to find a quiet refuge. 

The VA has over 400 audiology clinics and hearing care sites nationwide, where veterans can get examined and consult with experts in hearing health to find the best treatment. 

Audiologists and other hearing care professionals could offer the following solutions, depending on an individual’s unique needs: 

·       Hearing aids — Devices that amplify sounds for people with hearing loss but can also help reduce the loudness of tinnitus.

·       Sound therapy — The technique of deliberately listening to external noises made by masking devices to alter perception or reaction to tinnitus. Devices include: 

·       Tinnitus Retraining Therapies (TRT) — A combination of counseling and sound therapy to train your brain to ignore or mask the sounds of tinnitus. 

·       Ear wax removal — Removing excessive ear wax that may be causing tinnitus either using a small scooping tool, suction, or irrigation. 

Other healthcare professionals can provide additional support, including the following: 

·       Medication adjustments — Tinnitus is sometimes a side effect of certain medications, so it’s best to discuss all your medications and possible side effects with your primary care physician or other doctor. 

·       Psychological counseling — Tinnitus can sometimes be brought on or worsened by stress, so caring for an individual’s mental health can also be an effective approach. Licensed counselors or therapists with a background in tinnitus or chronic pain management, can be especially helpful. 

·       Cognitive Behavioral Therapies (CBT)

·       Stress relief efforts: mindfulness, meditation

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EVENTS

June 29, 2024, Saturday (no raindate), 1^st Annual  South County Car Show 9am-2pm at the General Stanton Inn off Route 1 Charlestown RI. Music by Cruisin Bruce. All proceeds to benefit RI Honor Flight and Johnnycake Center

July 1, 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

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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.

July 1 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.

FREE assistance available for understanding and applying for VA benefits, state and or local benefits available from 10:00 to 1:00 p.m. 

July 15, 2026 11:30 to 1:00 FREE Veteran Luncheon, VFW Post 5392, 134 Shove Street , Tiverton RI . Free for Veteran and their guest. Meal to be announced. FREE assistance available for understanding and applying for VA benefits, state and or local benefits available from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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:

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:

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

Learn more about FREE Rhode Island Hunting , Fishing, State Parks, and Golf  Benefits for Service Members and Veterans

https://dem.ri.gov/about-us/dem-offices/boating-registration-licenses/rhode-island-outdoors#:~:text=If%20you%20qualify%20for%20a,that%20issued%20the%20disability%20decision.

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:

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]

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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. 

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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. 

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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)  

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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.