TO WORK: Paid training for VETERANS with VRRAP (updated)

Unemployed veterans looking for work! Sign up for the Veteran Rapid Retraining Assistance Program (VRRAP). This program offers education and training for high-demand jobs to Veterans who are unemployed because of the COVID-19 pandemic. There is only a set amount of money and when it’s gone – it’s gone – so get right on this if it can help you.

The COVID-19 pandemic hit veteran employment hard. In March 2021, 5% of all veterans looking for work reported they had exhausted their job-training opportunities and have been unable to find stable employment; that figure is almost twice as high from the 2.9% during the same time last year at the beginning of the pandemic. In an effort to change the unemployment outlook, the American Rescue Plan of 2021 included $17 billion for several veteran programs.

One of these programs is a new fast training plan – the Veterans Rapid Retraining Assistance Program or VRRAP, for short. It was signed into law on March 11 and the VA started accepting applications on May 3rd. The program is limited to an estimated 17,500 veterans, and will expire on December 12, 2022. Moreover, first come for eligible Veterans once $386 million is allocated. 

“This is a tremendous opportunity for unemployed Veterans to receive PAID training in high demand careers; CDL tractor trailer, electrical, plumbing, grant writing, heavy equipment construction operator, medical assistance, medical coding, etc…’ said American legion Post #88 Commander Ray Trinque. “And while in the program, participants will receive estimate $1000-$2500 tax free, E5 housing allowance”.

Basically, eligibility includes being an honorably discharged veteran, aged 22-66, unemployed, and not eligible for any other funding for education. The Veteran also must not be VA TDIU.

“Many of the programs are online. For example, grant writing and medical coding. In one program, a Veteran attends in person for six weeks in New Hampshire, and learns how to operate heavy duty construction equipment; the program pays for travel and hotel for the Veteran,” said John Cianci, Veteran Service Officer, Italian American War Veterans, “and the veteran will get an estimated $1900 a month housing allowance-tax free”.

The Heavy Construction Duty Academy will be in attendance to answer any Veteran questions and if needed, to assist the Veteran in signing up for the program. 

To learn more and get your request in, go to: https://www.va.gov/education/other-va-education-benefits/veteran-rapid-retraining-assistance/.

If you need assistance, contact our Veterans column writer, who can assist you: John A Cianci, 860-931-4711.