The West Palm Beach VA Healthcare System hosted a resource fair for veterans on Friday at Big Dog Ranch Rescue in Loxahatchee. VA representatives assisted veterans with eligibility and health care enrollment, VA health care programs and claims support. A mobile medical unit was on site to address basic medical needs and allowed veterans to complete an initial primary care appointment on site and get into the VA system on the spot. Richard "Buzz" Bryan, director of community relations and community engagement for the West Palm Beach VA Healthcare System, said the event focused on reaching veterans who have not yet connected with VA services. Bryan, a combat veteran himself, said he did not utilize VA services for years and wants other veterans to learn from his experience.
Big Dog Ranch Rescue was on site to provide information about its service dog training program, animal adoption opportunities and additional veteran-focused services. Bryan said the organization's veteran service program is outstanding and called it the best place to get a service animal. Veterans who were unable to attend the resource fair can call the West Palm Beach VA Healthcare System at (561) 422-8387 to access enrollment and health care resources.