In the lead up to Anzac Day, Inverell Legacy is looking to connect with veterans in the area they may be able to assist.
According to the 2021 census there were 554 Australian Defence Force Veterans in the Inverell Legacy area. Over 200 of them are not known to Legacy or any local RSL Sub-Branches. Inverell Legacy wants to make contact with these Veterans because their families may be eligible for Legacy assistance.
Inverell Legacy provides a wide range of benefits to all beneficiaries from financial and practical assistance to organised trips and a regular newsletter.
“Eligibility for Legacy has changed in recent years,” said Ms Lyn Kitawal, General Manager of the Legacy Club of Inverell.
“Assistance now extends to the families of members of the ADF who have service-related conditions accepted by Department of Veterans’ Affairs (Gold or White card holders), as well as those who have died.”
“Legacy can also refer Veterans who have not made a DVA claim to a qualified advocate who will help them lodge a claim at no cost.”
“Even if you do not think that you are eligible or you were not eligible in the past, please ask. It costs nothing.”
The Inverell Legacy area includes all of the Inverell Shire, most of Gwydir Shire and the Texas post code (4385) area. If you live outside this area, Inverell Legacy can refer you to your local Legacy club.
A Veteran is recognised as any person who has served, or is currently serving, as a Defence Member in the Australian Defence Force (ADF), or any other person who was a member of or officially attached to the Defence Force of any part of the Commonwealth of Nations who served in a War or Operational Area.
Legacy is one of Australia’s oldest and most trusted charities, which provides personalised support and services to the families of Veterans who have given their lives or health for their country. For over 100 years, Legacy has been standing proudly as the only Veteran service organisation in Australia dedicated solely to the care and support of our Veterans’ families.
For the families, Legacy provides relief during times of trauma and offers the support needed to prevent any further injury or disadvantage. Legacy also provides the opportunity for the families to remember and honour their loved ones while ensuring they can aspire to their potential.
“Inverell Legacy currently support 100 beneficiaries,” Ms Kitawal said.
“Of those, there are 63 widows of veterans who have died, 18 children or students of living Veterans who have service-related injuries (one of these children has a disability and will be supported by Legacy for life), four adult disabled children of deceased Veterans, and 15 partners of living Veterans who have service-related injuries.”
“We currently have 3 beneficiaries that are attending University. They have each received a Legacy Australia Education & Development Fund grant of $5,000 which can be used for any course related expenses.”
Tertiary students can also receive a monthly allowance to assist with living expenses. Scholarships are available from NSW Legacy Club Services and Legacy Australia Inc.
The Legacy Club of Inverell is encouraging anyone who knows of a veteran or family of a veteran to help with their search, so their important work can continue to reach those who need it.
For more information, please contact Inverell Legacy, 02 6722 1945 or inverell.legacy@gmail.com.
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