VBA Team;

Thanks for your strength and resiliency as we continue to work through the COVID-19 pandemic together.

My sincere hope is that our employees make it through this pandemic unscathed, but the reality is that you, or someone you know, may have personally been affected by the death of a loved one due to COVID-19.

There is a special program run entirely by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) that provides up to $9,000 in funeral reimbursement assistance for COVID-related deaths.

For family members of Veterans, FEMA may cover funeral costs that VA does not.

I encourage all employees to share this information with their friends, family, and colleagues. If you know someone who may qualify, let them know financial reimbursement is available. You can find specific details on FEMA’s Funeral Expense Reimbursement Program here.

Your dedicated service is appreciated.

THOMAS MURPHY
Acting Under Secretary for Benefits
Department of Veterans Affairs

DB:dmf
emailed to all posts per Service Officer Dennis Birchall
dbirchall@banderacounty.org