The Legion’s Service Bureau Network assists all veterans including serving Canadian Forces members, Royal Canadian Mounted Police and their families while representing their interests with Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC) and the Veterans Review and Appeal Board (VRAB) regarding disability benefits under the Pension Act or the Canadian Forces Members and Veterans Re-establishment and Compensation Act, commonly referred to as the New Veterans Charter.
Free Representation Services
Professional command Legion service officers provide counselling, assistance and representational services free of charge, whether or not you are a Legion member. Our representation role is mandated through legislation. The Legion can provide representation from first application to VAC through to Request for Reconsideration with the VRAB.
As the command service officer in Halifax, Brian Richardson states: “Not only do we prepare and submit disability claims; we also advise those serving as well as members of the RCMP and CF who have retired and the families.”
Another command service officer located in Victoria, Allan Waddy states: “We can be a gateway to VAC programs, allowing veterans to deal with one person for a variety of services. This is important for veterans with complex disabilities or for those looking for direction and information on a sometimes complicated process.”
Benevolent Assistance
Benevolent assistance is available for all serving and former Canadian Forces members and their families who are in distress or having a clear financial need. Grants are available for food, heating costs, clothing, prescription medication, medical appliances or equipment, essential home repairs and emergency shelter or assistance.
If you would like Legion assistance in obtaining VAC disability benefits and services or Legion benevolent assistance, or if you have a friend or family member who needs help, please call 613-591-3335 or toll-free at 1-877-534-4666 to speak to a service officer or e-mail servicebureau@legion.ca.
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