Local veterans now have the opportunity to pore over benefits available to them thanks to the new free counseling service offered at the Bing Rooming House Museum.
George Hampton, a VA counselor, will be on site from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Wednesday to meet with local veterans who want to make sure they are up-to-date on the services and benefits available for them. Federal, state and local opportunities are constantly changing and it is often difficult for veterans to stay on top of everything they could benefit from. That’s where Hampton comes in.
“It all started at this past year’s MLK Festival,” William Thomas Jr., president of the Improvement League of Plant City, said. “Our theme was centered around recognizing local veterans, specifically people of color that had served in our military. There were so many that we were able to recognize and we realized just how many people in this community had served. After the event there was an individual, George Hampton, who approached us and said that he wanted to provide some VA counsel to help guide our veterans through the process of VA benefits.”
The pandemic further complicated matters, so the Improvement League of Plant City decided to wait until it was safe to have people meet in person to open the Bing House’s doors. The free counseling program opened Oct. 7 and five veterans have already taken advantage of the assistance.
The Bing House has always been more than just a museum. For years it has been the gathering place for a variety of groups, including a youth forensics program, and has hosted several community events like Taste of Laura Street and the Plant City MLK Festival on its property. Thomas said they want its community outreach to continue to grow. Between last year’s MLK Festival and the Veterans Coffee event, it became clear there was a large need in the community for veterans assistance.
Thomas is a veteran himself, as are many of the members of leadership with the Improvement League. It’s a cause he said is close to all of their hearts and he added they are beyond thrilled that they are able to offer this service with Hampton’s help.
“We want to make sure our fellow brethren are taken care of,” Thomas said. “We hold them in high favor. What a lot of people don’t realize is benefits aren’t just for those who are retired military. If you served any amount of time, you have options open to you. With everything going on right now it’s so important that our veterans take advantage of the help that’s available.”
Walk-ins are welcome and can arrive anytime throughout the event. If that time period doesn’t work with someone’s schedule, Thomas said they can call the Bing House at 813-704-5800 to set up an appointment with Hampton.
When you arrive, a temperature check will be given at the door and attendees are asked to wear masks to protect their fellow veterans. To streamline the process, bring your DD214 form with you.
If you go
What:
Free Assistance for Military Veterans
When:
10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Wednesday
Where: Bing House Museum, 205 Allen St., Plant City
Requirements:
Masks are required and temperature checks will be given at the door.
Via: VA Counselor George Hampton
Walk-ins welcomed or call
813-704-5800 to set a specific time