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Columbia County Veteran Services Office (VSO)

The Veteran Services Office is open to all veterans residing in Columbia County. Our office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, by appointment. The VSO is in Saint Helens and we extend our services to veterans in the outlying communities of Clatskanie, Vernonia, and Rainier.

The VSO provides support, advocacy, and accurate information to veterans about VA claims processes and benefits. We offer referrals and connections to essential VA resources, ensuring that every veteran receives the help that you deserve.

Meet Your VSO

Erin Nolan, our dedicated Veteran’s Service Officer (VSO), is accredited through the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs (ODVA). VSO Nolan is a staunch advocate, committed to ensuring that you receive the benefits that you have earned.

Please do not hesitate to contact VSO Nolan directly at (503) 366-6580 for assistance.

Your VSO can help you navigate the VA claims process From initial filing through appeals.

1

Disability & Pension Claims

Assistance in filing claims for disabilities and pensions you are entitled to as a veteran

2

Aid & Attendance

Help accessing benefits for in-home or community-based care services

3

Burial Benefits

Guidance on obtaining benefits for funeral and burial costs

4

Spousal & Dependent Benefits

Support in securing benefits for your spouse and dependents

Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF)

Helping Veterans & Their Families Achieve Stable Housing

The SSVF program supports homeless veterans and those at risk of homelessness in securing stable housing. To qualify for our services, you must meet the following criteria:

Veteran Status: You are a veteran or a member of a veteran family. Veterans must have served and been released under conditions other than dishonorable. A veteran family is defined as a single person or a family where the head of household or their spouse is a veteran.

Income Eligibility: Your household income does not exceed 50% of the area median income.

SSVF Services Include:

Temporary Financial Assistance: Through collaboration with a case manager, we offer help with rental arrearages, utilities, moving expenses, security, and utility deposits, as well as transportation. Assistance is based on eligibility and available funding.

Supportive Services: Our SSVF (Supportive Services for Veteran Families) program aims to enhance housing stability for very low-income veteran families. We provide outreach, case management services, and help participants access VA benefits, other public benefits, and additional services administered by the Community Action Team (CAT).

Additional Referrals

  • Health care
  • Daily living needs
  • Personal financial planning services
  • Payee services
  • Legal services
  • Housing counseling services
  • Employment and training
  • Education
  • Child care referrals
  • Drug and alcohol counseling referrals
  • Vocational rehabilitation

We are here to help you navigate these resources and connect you with the support you need to achieve a stable and fulfilling life. For more information and to get the assistance you need, contact our office today.