While Congress argues over stop gap funding and closes federal offices, area offices such as county Veterans Affairs offices remain open. The Veterans Administration will not permanently place headstones or maintain the grounds at VA national cemeteries. They will not process applications for pre-need burials and will not print new presidential memorial certificates.
According to Winnebago County Veterans Affairs Director May Lou Kleveland, there are other areas within the VA which will be closed during the shutdown.
While these areas are shutdown for now, there are other areas that will remain open according to Kleveland.
While it is disappointing that not all services will be available during the shutdown, Kleveland is thankful that a critical service is open. The Veterans Crisis Line which 988 and then press 1. She explained how this helps a veteran during a very difficult time.
She remains disappointed that the career counseling service is shutdown during this time.
Kleveland stated that she will help veterans during this time with available resources but that it is up to the veteran to call her first.
Her office number is (641) 585-5736.
