VFW Post 8430 Helps Host March 30 Veteran’s Resource Fair

East McKeesport Veterans of Foreign Wars ‘Hilltoppers’ Post 8430 and the Veterans Leadership Program of Western Pennsylvania are among those that will be holding a Veteran’s Resource Fair Saturday, March 30 from 10 am to 2 pm at the East McKeesport Community Center on 539 Chicora Avenue. All veterans are encouraged to bring their DD Form 214 discharge papers and learn about what benefits may be available for themselves and their family members.
According to VFW Post 8430 Junior Vice Commander Jessica Adams, the event is designed to be a one stop shop for those who’ve served in uniform.
“We wanted to get knowledgeable and experienced staff together all in one location to better serve local veterans,” said Adams, a Marine Iraq War veteran. “We also scheduled the fair for a Saturday to make it easier for working families.”

Topics to be presented at the resource fair include Veterans Administration health care benefits, VA pensions, burial and memorial benefits, housing, and the Department of Veterans Affairs Home Loan Guaranty Program. Trained social workers from the Veterans Leadership Program of Western Pennsylvania will be on hand to answer questions, as well as veterans’ service organization representatives.
Others expected to participate include local elected officials or their representatives, the VA Vet Center, the Marine Corps League, a Marine Corps transition readiness counselor, and Duquesne University.
Also present will be the United States Postal Service, an official from State Senator Jim Brewster’s office, and representatives from Wounded Warriors.
Adams said her own experiences after returning from deployment more than 15 years ago helped motivate her to solicit as many groups as possible for the resource fair.
“Since joining the VFW and becoming active at my post, I’ve learned of a number of services and benefits that are available to veterans,” she said. “When I got back, I found that being together with fellow veterans who’ve shared my experiences helped tremendously. They were able to connect me with agencies and groups that specialize in helping veterans readjust back to civilian life.”
Veterans do not have to be from East McKeesport to attend this event. For more information about VFW Post 8430 and to register, contact Adams at: 412-823-9687 orjrvicecommandervfw8430@gmail.com.