VA Impacts during Shutdown

Staff/KL - 10/1/2025

The vast majority of VA benefits and services will continue uninterrupted during the ongoing government shutdown, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs announced Wednesday, however the department did warn that some critical care and assistance programs will be impacted. 
 
According to the announcement, the following will be impacted: 
  • VA Regional Offices will be closed 
  • VA will not process applications for pre-need burials 
  • VA will not provide career counseling services. 
  • VA will not provide transition assistance program activities. 
  • VA will cease public affairs and outreach efforts to veterans. 
  • The GI Bill Hotline will be closed. 

 

 

The following will not be impacted. 
  • VA Medical Centers, Outpatient Clinics and Vet Centers will remain open
  • VA Benefits will continue to be processed and delivered, including compensation, pension, education, and housing benefits. 
  • Burials will continue at VA National Cemeteries. 
  • Applications for headstone markers and burial benefits processing will continue. 
  • The Board of Veterans' Appeals will continue to make decisions. 
  • VA Contact Centers (1-800-MyVA411) will remain open 
  • The Veterans Crisis Line (Dial 988, Press 1) will remain open 24/7. 

Commander's Corner

Commander Marci Juris

                                                  Serving as Commander of VFW Post 9657 is an honor rooted in my commitment to every veteran who calls this community home. My vision is simple and unwavering: to make VFW Post 9657 a strong, reliable community resource — a place where veterans find support, connection, and purpose.

This year, my goals focus on strengthening the foundation of our Post and expanding the ways we serve:

- Post readiness — reinforcing the essential operations of our facility and building a stable, engaged membership that keeps our Post strong and sustainable.

- Community‑facing engagement — increasing events, outreach, and partnerships that connect veterans with real resources. By working with local organizations and hosting meaningful activities, we create opportunities for veterans to engage, heal, and thrive.

- Mission‑driven membership — fostering a culture of service, partnership, and purpose that reflects the heart of the VFW mission. Membership is more than numbers; it is the strength behind every effort we undertake.

I say this often because it guides everything I do: "I will not sit by and let another veteran go without the support they need.” That promise is the foundation of my leadership and the direction of our Post.

Together, we will continue building a Post that stands ready, stands united, and stands for veterans — always.

- Post Commander Marci Juris


 A Strong Community Resource — Every Veteran. Every Time.