Veterans Services

To be the Town of West Springfield Veterans Services agency renowned for leadership, innovation, and Veteran oriented services leading to long term positive outcomes for our Veterans and our community.

The Chapter 115 Benefits Program is run by the Massachusetts Department Veterans’ Services (DVS). DVS runs the program in partnership with local Veterans’ Service Officers (VSOs).

The Program provides financial aid for food, shelter/housing, clothing, and medical care to veterans and their dependents who have limited incomes.

Every town or district in Massachusetts has a Veterans’ Service Officer (VSO).

VSOs must assist veterans and their dependents in learning about, applying for, and receiving Chapter 115 benefits. VSOs can also help you in applying, appealing, and receiving VA compensation and pension.

• Cash Assistance - You can get a monthly cash payment. Whether you can get this cash payment depends on your living situation, special needs, and income. For example, if you are a single applicant living alone, you might qualify for between $1 and more than $1,000.00 each month.
• Medical Expense Reimbursements - You can be reimbursed for various types of expenses such as insurance premiums, co-pays, dental work, and eyeglasses. Even if you have too much income to get cash assistance, you still might be able to get medical expense reimbursements.
• Emergency Assistance - You might be able to get financial aid if you are behind on your mortgage, rent, or utility bills. You might be able to get financial aid for emergency home repairs or in cases of natural disasters.

Your local VSO handles applications, gets approval from DVS, and gives out benefits. The program is funded by a combination of state and local funds. DVS pays for 75% and your city or town pays for 25% of approved benefits.