SUMMER VET FEST: VA HOSTS PACT ACT EVENTS ALL JUNE LONG


By akirschbaum
Vet fest poster for 2024.

Many Veterans have been benefiting from the PACT Act since it was signed into law on August 10, 2022. With these benefits, Vets who were exposed to Agent Orange, burn pits, toxins, survivors of war like the Gulf and Vietnam War, and post 9/11 era are all covered. This month, the VA announced that they will host the second annual PACT Act Summer Vet Fest. It will even feature 100 events across 50 states from June through August, including Puerto Rico. These events aim to motivate more survivors, Veterans, caregivers, and their families to take advantage of the benefits and healthcare available for the PACT Act. Some standby VA professionals are ready to assist with questions, applications, screenings, and enrollments.

What to Expect at the Vet Fest 2024

Aside from filing a claim and seeking help from the stationed VA health care and benefits professionals, the event will feature a lot of music and food for its attendees to enjoy. This summer, the primary goal of the Vet Fest 2024 is to bring the VA closer to the Vets, making it accessible for them to sign up and claim their benefits. Across the country, millions of Vets are still eligible but not enrolled in any VA program. That's why events like this are essential. Since its approval, the Department of Veterans Affairs has hosted over 2,600 events, with the help of promotions such as ad campaigns, letters, emails, and its very first text messaging campaign to inform eligible Veterans.

Track Records of Previous Enrollees Over the Years

There were 2,433,729 claim applicants in 2023, and this number will rise this year. Intents to file last year increased to 2,299,815, 62% more than in 2022. However, most of them still need to finish their applications, so the VA is reaching out to help them complete everything before expiration. These numbers are expected to rise with the help of the summer Vet Fest. Plus, with the new regulations, Vets exposed to toxins can enroll directly for health care without applying for benefits, provided they meet the basic service requirements. If you want to know about the upcoming events or have some questions, it is better to visit the VA website, VA.gov/PACT, or call 1-800-MYVA411 for assistance.

A Sneak Peak of Summer Vet Fest 2024

During the entire month of June, states will be hosting different Vet Fest events. The celebration goes all month long, so if you missed out on going to an event this weekend, be sure to check back and find another event either in your local area or in a neighboring state. This year, Las Vegas held its Vet Fest at Allegiant Stadium, Las Vegas, on June 8, 2024. Furthermore, the VA Southern Nevada Healthcare System was the host in partnership with the Veteran Benefits Administration's Reno Regional Office and the Nevada Department of Veterans Services. Here is a list of some of the upcoming Vet Fest events and locations that you'll want to attend.

  • Arizona: June 27th (Phoenix) PACT Act Summer Vet Fest
  • Arkansas: June 24th (North Little Rock) 2024 Central Arkansas VA Healthcare System Summer Vet Fest
  • California: June 18th (Bakersfield) Bakersfield Veterans Town Hall
  • Florida: June 14th (Jacksonville) North Florida Vet Fest for Women Veterans
  • Michigan: June 20th (Michigan Center) Jackson CBOC Veteran Appreciation Cookout & PACT ACT Enrollment Fair
  • New York: June 19th (Westerlo) Westerlo Hill Town Outreach

*This is not an extensive list. Click here to find an event in your state.

Summer Vet Fest

Around 30 VA booths will be ready to answer your questions about the PACT Act, disability claims, healthcare eligibility, and enrollment. Many other benefits and health-related services will also be available for Veterans, caregivers, families, and survivors.

Entertainment Overload

There will be other dignitaries and celebrities showing up to these events around the country. This includes chart-topping country music Artist Walker Hayes, Grammy-nominated and American Idol finalist Danny Gokey, and local Las Vegas magicians Janine Carson and Garry.

VIP Access

Attendees will experience events packed with climbing walls, jumping gyms, a kid's zone, and sports drills. At each Vet Fest event, you can participate in giveaways and get a chance to win apparel and household necessities.

Registration (Required)

Entry to Vet Fest 2024 is free and open to all active-duty military service members, Veterans, and their families. Event space is limited, which is why you must secure your spot to enter any of the Vet Fest events this month.Tickets will be sent to your email. Additionally, downloading the appropriate app that is connected with your event ticket can make getting access to the venue easier. Lastly, don't forget your military or identification card to confirm your Veteran status for entry to Vet Fest events.Related reads:

Image Source: VA


JOIN OUR NEWSLETTER

Get the latest VeteranLife content and news.
Email*
CONNECT WITH US
VeteranLife Logo

©2024 VeteranLife. All rights reserved.