(Update: This event has concluded. A recording is available at this link.)

As part of ongoing outreach efforts with the VA, MOAA will co-host a Tele-Townhall event Sept. 18 at 4 p.m. Eastern, offering veterans, caregivers, and others in the military community the chance to ask questions and hear updates on multiple programs under the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA).

MOAA President and CEO Lt. Gen. Dana T. Atkins, USAF (Ret), will participate alongside VA Under Secretary for Benefits Dr. Paul Lawrence in the hourlong session. To listen in, call (833) 380-0417; attendees can ask a question by dialing *3.

The call will focus on the VA’s COVID-19 response efforts and updates to Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA). In addition to fielding questions, Lawrence will discuss:

• The department’s Blue Water Navy claims program, which had awarded total retroactive benefit payments of more than $583 million as of July 31.
• VA Solid Start, an outreach program targeting transitioning veterans who may not be aware of the benefits they’ve earned through service.
• The Veterans Benefits Banking Program (VBBP), which offers financial assistance to veterans through participating financial firms.

[RELATED: What You Should Know About the Veterans Benefits Banking Program]

“This is an opportunity for MOAA members and others to reach out directly to the VA senor leadership and make their voices heard,” Atkins said. “MOAA is proud to assist with these outreach efforts – while we continue to work with VA on securing all manner of earned benefits, your questions and your experiences with VA programs help to identify where policy and resource changes are needed. Whether positive or negative, don’t hesitate to share in this forum, or reach out to MOAA.”

Once completed, audio from the Tele-Townhall will be posted on the VBA’s YouTube page.