Summer VetFest introduces Veterans to benefits

The event was designed to inform Veterans, their families, and survivors about the PACT Act and encourage them to apply for the health care and benefits they have earned.

As the sun peaked through the clouds and temperatures began to rise, hundreds of Veterans arrived as early as 9 a.m., seeking to apply for their PACT benefits. The event space was quickly flooded with over 400 eager applicants ready to register, with live music, outdoor games, and refreshments available. 

“It was an amazing outpouring of support and interest by the Veterans, our community, and our staff,” said Dr. Oladipo Kukoyi, Executive Director at the Birmingham VA Health Care System. “We have about a week left in the special enrollment period that allows us to retroact benefits to the previous year. We did our best to get Veterans to this event to get them what they earned, and I am happy to see our turnout."

The PACT Act is perhaps VA's most extensive health care and benefits expansion. This law expands VA health care and benefits for Veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic substances.

The PACT Act adds to the presumed health conditions caused by exposure to toxic substances. This law helps to provide generations of Veterans, and their survivors, with the care and benefits they have earned and deserve.

“I feel that events like this are very helpful for Veterans to get the benefits they deserve,” said Bayland Barnes, multi-service Veteran of the U.S. Army, U.S. National Guard, U.S. Navy, and U.S. Marines. “Many Veterans do not know what they are eligible for. I learned about this event from a friend who saw the social media postings and decided to come out. For me, this has been very beneficial.”

Birmingham VA staff and community partners were stationed at information tables inside the clinic, ready to help Veterans apply for PACT Act-related benefits, enroll in VA health care, get screened for toxic exposures and more. Birmingham VA medical center personnel performed 259 toxic exposure screenings, while the Montgomery Regional Benefits Office representatives assisted Veterans in initiating 150 claims. 

“Many Veterans do not know they have been exposed or qualify for these benefits. It is nice to look around and watch Veterans going through the process to get the benefits they need and deserve,” said Dean Halsey, a Veteran of the U.S. Army. I got a phone call about this event, and wanted to check it out. My experience today has been beneficial, so whenever the Birmingham VA has any other events, I will always attend.”