County dedicates $1M in emergency aid to assist veterans affected by pandemic

Oakland County Executive David Coulter and the county Board of Commissioners last Thursday announced $1 million in emergency grant assistance has been allocated for veterans, service members and eligible family members affected by the coronavirus.

The grants can be used for health, economic and financial hardships resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. It is comprised of $250,000 in COVID-19 emergency assistance awarded by the state and $750,000 from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.

“The economic and personal hardships caused by COVID-19 have impacted veterans across Oakland County,” Coulter said. “These grants are a welcome help to assist our veterans. I applaud the board for recognizing the great needs of our veterans during this unprecedented time and approving this resolution unanimously.”

The board approved the use of grant funds at its May 20 meeting. County Commissioner Penny Luebs of Clawson sponsored the resolution.

“Our veterans, service members and eligible family members with emergent health, economic and financial difficulties need our help,” Luebs said. “Mobile testing and reopening kits for American Legion and VFW locations, personal protection equipment kits for veterans and grant programs to help with mortgage, rent and utilities are just a few ways these funds can make an impact.

“I am proud to say that my father served in the Navy, one son served in the Army and another son is presently in the Army. We must do what we can for those who have contributed so much.”

Grants will be based on need and available to veterans, service members and eligible dependents living in Oakland County. Full eligibility and an online application are being developed and will be released soon.

“This pandemic hits communities differently, and it is vital that we recognize the impact the crisis is having on our veterans,” Board Chairman David Woodward said. “The board stands with County Executive David Coulter in creating this relief fund to ensure that we’re fighting for the men and women who have and currently defend us and our country.”

Other uses of the CARE Act for veterans nationwide include increased funding for the Veterans Administration to hire more staff, fight against veteran homelessness, use cutting-edge tele-health technology to keep appointments and help state-run veterans homes.

For additional information about the COVID-19 pandemic, go to OakGov.com/COVID.