Assistance and Benefits for Veteran Single Mothers in West Virginia
Assistance and Benefits for Veteran Single Mothers in West Virginia
Last updated: September 2025
This hub is written for veteran single moms living anywhere in West Virginia. It pulls together veteran‑specific programs, state veteran benefits, and practical next steps. You’ll see short checklists, timelines, realistic warnings, and direct numbers. When you see an action item, do it now—don’t wait. You’ve earned these benefits.
If You Only Do 3 Things – Emergency Actions to Take
- Call now if you’re at risk of homelessness: Contact the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at 1-877-424-3838 or use the online chat through VA Homeless Programs; ask to be connected to Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) in West Virginia and HUD‑VASH case management through your nearest VA medical center. WV VA medical centers can fast‑track housing help. (va.gov)
- Get immediate women‑veteran navigation help: Call or text the Women Veterans Call Center at 1-855-829-6636; they connect you with a Women Veterans Program Manager and Maternity Care Coordinator at the WV VA medical center closest to you, and can help reopen your VA enrollment. Use the Women Veterans Call Center chat if you can’t talk. (womenshealth.va.gov)
- Book a same‑week claims appointment: Use VBA’s VERA scheduler to meet with the Huntington VA Regional Office Public Contact team, or drop into a West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance (WVDVA) benefits office for accredited help filing or fixing a claim through Huntington VA Regional Office and WVDVA Benefits Offices. (benefits.va.gov)
Quick Help Box — Keep These 5 at Your Fingertips
- Crisis support 24/7: Dial 988, then press 1 for the Veterans Crisis Line or text 838255; chat is available online and supports family members too. How it works explains options. (veteranscrisisline.net)
- Women veterans health and maternity care: Call 1-855-829-6636 or connect via the Women Veterans Call Center; use the WVPM locator to find your local contact. (womenshealth.va.gov)
- Homelessness prevention and rapid rehousing: Call 1-877-424-3838 or contact VA Homeless Programs; West Virginia’s Coalition to End Homelessness runs Coordinated Entry at 1-833-722-2014. (va.gov)
- Transportation to VA care (free vans): Ask your facility’s DAV Hospital Service Coordinator through DAV Medical Transportation or your facility’s DAV Vans page (e.g., Huntington VA DAV Vans). (dav.org)
- WVDVA Women Veterans Program (state help): Reach West Virginia’s program for women veterans, launched in 2024 and led by Jessica Lynch, via WVDVA Women Veterans Program and the central office at 1-304-558-3661. About WVDVA lists leadership and contacts. (veterans.wv.gov)
Who this guide is for and how to use it
You’ll find only veteran‑specific support here—no generic programs. Every section starts with the single best action to take right now, followed by eligibility, steps, timelines, and “What to do if this doesn’t work.” Use your nearest WVDVA office for hands‑on paperwork help, and lean on the Women Veterans Call Center when you hit a wall. (veterans.wv.gov)
Housing First: How to prevent eviction or get rehoused fast
Start here if you received a termination notice, eviction filing, or you’re couch‑surfing or doubled up with kids.
- Immediate phone call: Call 1-877-424-3838 and ask for SSVF (Supportive Services for Veteran Families) and HUD‑VASH. The hotline routes you to VA homelessness staff and local providers. Use the VA Homeless Veterans hotline or chat if you can’t call. (va.gov)
- West Virginia SSVF lead: West Virginia Community Action Partnership (WVCAP) coordinates statewide SSVF and lists county subcontractors for prevention, arrears, deposits, and short‑term help. Start with WVCAP SSVF and ask your local Community Action to screen you same day. (wvcap.org)
- Coordinated Entry backup: If you can’t reach SSVF, call the WV Coalition to End Homelessness intake line at 1-833-722-2014 via WVCEH; ask them to flag you as a veteran household with minors. (veterans.wv.gov)
- HUD‑VASH path (voucher + case management): Ask your VA medical center social work team for a HUD‑VASH referral; use VA facility finders and HUD’s WV page for PHA contacts in Charleston, Huntington, Martinsburg, Parkersburg, Beckley, and more through HUD West Virginia. (hud.gov)
- Veterans home option (domiciliary): If you’re ambulatory but need safe, low‑cost housing, apply to the West Virginia Veterans Home (Barboursville); female veterans are “most welcome,” and unique lodging is provided as space allows. For skilled‑care needs, the WV Veterans Nursing Facility (Clarksburg) is an option. (veterans.wv.gov)
Eligibility: SSVF serves very‑low‑income veteran families at risk or literally homeless; HUD‑VASH serves eligible veterans needing long‑term housing with case management; the Veterans Home requires honorable service, ability to live independently, and VA‑care eligibility through WV Veterans Home criteria and VA Homeless Programs. (veterans.wv.gov)
How to apply: Ask for an SSVF intake over the phone and gather ID, DD‑214, income proof, lease/notice, and a statement of crisis; submit a HUD‑VASH referral through your VA social worker; file the Veterans Home application via WVDVA Benefits Offices or by emailing the facility contacts on each page. (veterans.wv.gov)
Realistic timelines: In crisis cases, SSVF can often issue prevention or rehousing assistance within days; HUD‑VASH depends on voucher availability at your local housing authority; plan for waitlists and ask about “set‑aside” vouchers for homeless families. Confirm specifics with your VA facility and HUD WV field office before you bank on a date. (hud.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the VA hotline to escalate to your VA homeless program coordinator; request written denial reasons; ask WVCEH for diversion funds; and contact the WVU Veterans Advocacy Law Clinic if you need legal backup with an unlawful eviction. Legal Aid of WV—Veterans Services can step in when income rules are a barrier. (law.wvu.edu)
Women’s VA Health, Maternity Care, and MST‑Related Care
Start by connecting with the Women Veterans Call Center and your local Women Veterans Program Manager.
- Most important action: Call 1-855-829-6636 to reach the Women Veterans Call Center; ask to be connected to your WV facility’s Women Veterans Program Manager (WVPM) and a Maternity Care Coordinator if you are pregnant or planning. WVPM locator lists contacts by state. (womenshealth.va.gov)
- Services you can expect: WV VA facilities provide primary care, gynecology, maternity care via community hospitals, and postpartum support; see Huntington Women Veteran Care and Beckley Women Veteran Care for examples. Use Maternity Care – Women’s Health for current guidance. (va.gov)
- Military Sexual Trauma (MST) care: MST‑related care is free for eligible survivors and available even if you’re not enrolled; each WV facility has an MST Coordinator (e.g., Beckley x4715, Clarksburg x3905, Huntington x3769, Martinsburg x2327) through the VHA MST Coordinator directory. For safety planning related to partner violence, contact your facility’s Intimate Partner Violence Assistance Program Coordinator. (mentalhealth.va.gov)
- Patient advocates: If you hit a delay or barrier, ask for the Patient Advocate (Clarksburg ext. 3035; Huntington ext. 2268; Beckley ext. 4064; Martinsburg ext. 3068) listed by VISN 5 on VISN 5 contacts and request a warm handoff to the WVPM or social work. (department.va.gov)
Table: Women’s VA Care touchpoints in West Virginia
| Facility | What to do first | Key contacts |
|---|---|---|
| Clarksburg (Louis A. Johnson VAMC) | Call Women Veterans Call Center; ask for WVPM and maternity coordinator | Find facility page; Patient Advocate 1-304-623-3461 x3035 via VISN 5 (va.gov) |
| Huntington (Hershel “Woody” Williams VAMC) | Request WVPM and maternity care coordination | Women Veteran Care; Patient Advocate 1-304-429-6755 x2268 via VISN 5 (va.gov) |
| Beckley VAMC | Ask for women’s health clinic and maternity coordinator | Women Veteran Care; Patient Advocate 1-304-255-2121 x4064 via VISN 5 (va.gov) |
| Martinsburg VAMC | Request WVPM and MST Coordinator | Facility page; Patient Advocate 1-304-263-0811 x3068 via VISN 5 (department.va.gov) |
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the WVPM to escalate to the Chief of Staff; file a patient advocate ticket; and call the Women Veterans Call Center back for follow‑up. If your maternity bills were sent to collections, ask VA Community Care to review and request expedited resolution via your facility’s billing office on VA facility pages. (womenshealth.va.gov)
Make the Money Go Further: WV property tax relief and state veteran benefits
- Most important action: If you are a disabled homeowner rated 90–100% by VA, claim West Virginia’s new Disabled Veteran Real Property Tax Credit for taxes paid on your home. It first applies to the 2024 property taxes and is claimed on your 2024 state return filed in 2025; see WV Tax: Income Tax Credits for Property Taxes Paid and download TSD‑455. This credit replaces the old $20,000 homestead exemption for eligible disabled veterans. (tax.wv.gov)
- Homestead exemption basics: Veterans rated 100% permanent and total may still be eligible for traditional homestead treatment through county assessors; apply by local deadlines (often by October 1) per state guidance and local pages like Fayette County Homestead Exemption. Confirm your county’s process with your assessor’s office. (fayettecounty.wv.gov)
- Don’t double‑claim: WV’s Senior Citizen or Excess Property Tax credits can’t be stacked with the Disabled Veteran Property Tax Credit; see WV Tax—Senior Citizens Tax Credit for interaction rules. Governor’s Tax Day update also confirms the new disabled veteran credit. (tax.wv.gov)
Table: West Virginia property tax and income tax relief for disabled veteran homeowners
| Benefit | Who qualifies | What it does | Where to apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Disabled Veteran Real Property Tax Credit | Honorably discharged veteran with 90–100% combined VA rating; owns and occupies homestead | Refundable state income tax credit for property tax timely paid on the homestead (first use on 2024 return filed 2025) | WV Tax – Credits for Property Taxes Paid; bring VA rating letter and paid receipts (tax.wv.gov) |
| Homestead Exemption (legacy) | Age 65+ or permanently and totally disabled; some counties accept VA/SSA disability letters | Exempts first $20,000 of assessed value (legacy program; not stackable with the disabled vet credit) | Apply with county assessor; example process: Fayette County (fayettecounty.wv.gov) |
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask WVDVA to write a support letter confirming your rating for the assessor; call the WV Tax Division about claiming the credit even if you do not otherwise file a return; see the WV Tax Credits page for the MyTaxes option and TSD‑455 guidance. WVDVA State Benefits also summarizes the credit. (tax.wv.gov)
School and Training: Education benefits for you and your children
- Most important action: If you have a service‑connected disability that limits work, apply for Veteran Readiness & Employment (VR&E, Chapter 31) to fund training, licensing, and job help through VR&E (VBA) or book a VR&E slot via the Huntington VA Regional Office. Use the VERA link or call 1-304-399-9205 to schedule. (benefits.va.gov)
- Dependents’ education: Children or spouses of veterans who are permanently and totally disabled or deceased may qualify for VA’s Dependent Educational Assistance (Chapter 35) and Fry Scholarship; West Virginia adds the War Orphan Program that pays beyond DEA at public institutions and waives tuition/fees; see WVDVA Education Benefits and CFWV veterans resources (amounts up to 1,000/semester,1,000/semester, 2,000/year as of state guidance). (veterans.wv.gov)
- In‑state tuition and Yellow Ribbon: Public schools like WVU provide in‑state rates for eligible veterans and some dependents; Yellow Ribbon may cover non‑resident gaps when applicable. Check WVU VA Benefits and WVU Yellow Ribbon Waiver before each semester. (veterans.wvu.edu)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact the school’s VA Certifying Official; request a same‑day VBA call back via 1-800-827-1000; and ask WVDVA to assist with West Virginia’s War Orphan or state waivers through WVDVA Education Benefits. Huntington VBA office can also troubleshoot. (veterans.wv.gov)
VA Home Loans, Grants, and Keeping the Lights On
- Most important action: If you’re house‑hunting or refinancing, check whether you’re exempt from the VA funding fee (you are if you receive VA disability compensation or DIC). 2025 funding fee rates remain 2.15% for first‑time use with <5% down; 1.5% with ≥5% down; and 1.25% with ≥10% down; subsequent use is 3.3% with <5% down. See VA Funding Fee and the 2025 circular update extending current tables through 2034 in Circular 26‑23‑6 Change 2. (va.gov)
- Struggling with the mortgage: If you’re behind, tell your servicer you’re a VA borrower and ask for VA‑specific home retention options; review VA servicing updates on VA Home Loan Circulars and call your Regional Loan Center via the home loans contact page. (benefits.va.gov)
- Utility shutoff prevention today: First, ask your utility for a payment plan. Then apply with veteran‑specific charities that can pay arrears, deposits, or disconnect fees—SSVF (through WVCAP SSVF), local VFW/Legion posts, or vetted national funds like VFW Unmet Needs, USA Cares, Hope For The Warriors, or Semper Fi & America’s Fund. Confirm current eligibility and amounts on each program site, and ask your WVDVA office to help with documentation. (wvcap.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your VA social worker to write an urgent “prevent utility shutoff” letter for SSVF; request church benevolence funds through veterans‑serving partners; and escalate through your county Veteran Service Officer found via WVDVA offices by county. (veterans.wv.gov)
Transportation and Travel Pay You Can Actually Use
- Most important action: If you meet VA Beneficiary Travel rules (for example, pension, low‑income, ≥30% service‑connected, or traveling for C&P), submit travel claims within 30 days. Mileage pays 0.415permilewithamonthlydeductiblecap(typically0.415 per mile with a monthly deductible cap (typically 18). See VA travel reimbursement and VA News explainer. (va.gov)
- No ride to care: Use the DAV Transportation Network to reach your appointment for free; schedule through your facility (e.g., Huntington VA HSC 1-304-429-6741 x2979; Clarksburg VAMC has van details on its transportation page). Start at DAV Transportation or the Huntington VA DAV Vans page. (dav.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your clinic to convert to telehealth; request VA‑arranged special mode transport if medically justified; and ask your patient advocate to escalate via VISN 5 contacts. (department.va.gov)
Food Security With Dignity: Veteran‑only food boxes
- Most important action: Get into Mountaineer Food Bank’s Veterans Table distribution (no income test—veteran status only). The program provides about 1,400 veteran food boxes monthly at multiple WV sites, with pet food through “Pets of Vets.” Dates and sites are posted on Veterans Table | Mountaineer Food Bank and Programs overview. (mountaineerfoodbank.org)
- Local examples: Beckley’s monthly event at Linda K. Epling Stadium has fed 600+ veterans per distribution; check recent coverage and facility event pages like WVVA news on Beckley distribution and Beckley VA event listing for logistics. (wvva.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your VA social worker about emergency pantry vouchers; request a homebound delivery through DAV drivers where offered; and call Mountaineer Food Bank at 1-304-364-5518 from the Veterans Table page to add your name for the next run. (mountaineerfoodbank.org)
Employment and Income: Priority of Service for veterans, plus VR&E
- Most important action: Visit WorkForce West Virginia for veteran priority of service on job search and training; find your nearest office under WorkForce WV locations or call 1-800-252-JOBS (5627). Email workforcevets@wv.gov if you need a direct veteran staff contact listed on WorkForce WV directory. (workforcewv.org)
- If service‑connected and under‑employed: Apply for VR&E (Chapter 31) via How to apply for VR&E and ask the Huntington Regional Office to schedule your orientation; use Huntington VBA—Visiting Hours for appointments. (va.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Request a supervisory review of your WorkForce WV case; ask WVDVA to advocate for Priority of Service at your local office; and connect with a Vet Center for résumé groups through Huntington Vet Center or Charleston, WV Vet Center. (va.gov)
Local Organizations, Charities, and Support Groups (Veteran‑Focused)
- WVDVA accredited service officers: File claims, appeals, survivor benefits, and get referrals at your nearest WVDVA Benefits Office; sample contacts include Beckley (1-304-256-6955) and South Charleston (1-304-746-4497) from the Beckley office page and Charleston office page. (veterans.wv.gov)
- Legal help: The WVU Veterans Advocacy Law Clinic handles VA benefits, discharge upgrades, and more; apply through the client application page. Legal Aid of WV—Veterans Services offers housing and income‑stability legal help, including a Huntington VA partnership. (law.wvu.edu)
- Peer counseling and family support: Vet Centers provide confidential counseling separate from VA medical records; find hours and locations via Huntington Vet Center and Charleston, WV Vet Center, with a 24/7 call center at 1-877-927-8387. (va.gov)
Resources by Region (find the closest door)
- Kanawha Valley and Teays: Use WVDVA South Charleston office and Charleston Vet Center; for housing, HUD‑VASH via Huntington VAMC or Clarksburg VAMC depending on service area. (veterans.wv.gov)
- Southern WV (Beckley/Bluefield): Start with WVDVA Beckley office and Beckley VAMC Women’s Health; ask SSVF for Raleigh, Fayette, and surrounding counties via WVCAP SSVF. (veterans.wv.gov)
- North‑Central (Morgantown/Clarksburg): Use Clarksburg VAMC and the Huntington VBA office for VR&E and claims; ask about the WV Veterans Nursing Facility if long‑term care is needed. (va.gov)
- Eastern Panhandle (Martinsburg): Connect at Martinsburg VAMC and Martinsburg Vet Center; work claims via a local WVDVA office or VERA with Huntington VBA. (va.gov)
- Ohio River Valley (Wheeling/Parkersburg/Huntington): Check Huntington Vet Center + Parkersburg outstation; for housing, use HUD‑VASH through Huntington VAMC and SSVF via WVCAP. (va.gov)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- “I’ll file later.” Delaying claims means delayed back pay and delayed health care. Book a VERA appointment at Huntington VBA and bring your DD‑214 and medical evidence; WVDVA VSOs can represent you for free via WVDVA Benefits Offices. (benefits.va.gov)
- Not claiming the state tax credit. If you’re 90–100% SC and own your home, claim the Disabled Veteran Real Property Tax Credit on your 2024 return filed in 2025; instructions live on WV Tax’s credit page. (tax.wv.gov)
- Missing housing timelines. SSVF, HUD‑VASH, and shelters coordinate by “Coordinated Entry.” If you don’t call, you don’t get in the queue—start with 1-877-424-3838 through VA Homeless Programs. (va.gov)
Reality Check
- Funding does run out: Housing and utility dollars are limited and timing matters. Put your name in every pipeline (SSVF, HUD‑VASH, CE intake) using WVCAP SSVF and HUD WV contacts. (wvcap.org)
- Appointment backlogs happen: Use Vet Centers for counseling while you wait—records are confidential and separate—via Huntington Vet Center and Charleston Vet Center, with the 24/7 line 1-877-927-8387. (va.gov)
- Travel reimbursement isn’t automatic: You must submit claims within 30 days. Rates and deductible caps are on VA’s travel pay page. (va.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Need | First call or click | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Homelessness risk | 1-877-424-3838 and VA Homeless | Direct line to VA homelessness staff and SSVF/HUD‑VASH. (va.gov) |
| Women’s health or pregnancy | 1-855-829-6636 and WVPM locator | Connects you to a local women’s health team same week. (womenshealth.va.gov) |
| Property tax credit | WV Tax – Credits for Property Taxes Paid | Claim the Disabled Veteran Real Property Tax Credit (filed with your 2024 return in 2025). (tax.wv.gov) |
| Food today | Veterans Table (MFB) | Veteran‑only monthly food boxes; no income test. (mountaineerfoodbank.org) |
| Claims help | WVDVA offices and Huntington VBA | Accredited help and VERA scheduling. (veterans.wv.gov) |
Application Checklist (save/screenshot)
- Photo ID (state ID/Real ID; see WV DMV for ID help and veteran designation)
- DD‑214 or discharge papers (request via military records request; Vet Centers can help)
- VA award letters (disability ratings, DIC, pension—download from VA.gov account or ask HRO)
- Proof of residence and lease/notice (for SSVF/HUD‑VASH through VA Homeless Programs)
- Income docs (paystubs, child support orders, SNAP letter) and bank statements (for SSVF via WVCAP SSVF)
- Property tax receipts and VA rating letter (for state Disabled Veteran Real Property Tax Credit via WV Tax)
- School info (COE for GI Bill/DEA; registrar contact) via WVDVA Education
- Medical bills/appointment letters (for travel pay and Community Care through your VA facility)
(va.gov)
Troubleshooting: If Your Application Gets Denied
- Get the reason in writing: Ask for the denial letter and the specific regulation cited; if it’s a VA decision, you have review options. Use Huntington VBA to schedule a claims review, and ask a WVDVA Service Officer to represent you at no cost. (benefits.va.gov)
- Escalate clinically: For health services delays, file with the Patient Advocate (contacts on VISN 5), and call the Women Veterans Call Center back to re-route you. (department.va.gov)
- Re‑apply with missing docs attached: For state tax credits, attach your VA rating letter and paid receipts exactly as WV Tax lists. For SSVF, add proof of lease and arrears. (tax.wv.gov)
Diverse Communities: What to know and where to get tailored help
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask your VA facility to note your name and pronouns in your chart; counseling is available at Vet Centers with confidentiality protections. Use the Women Veterans Call Center to find affirming clinicians and IPV support through VA’s IPVAP; ask for TTY/relay if needed. (va.gov)
- Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: If you’re 90–100% and own your home, file the WV Disabled Veteran Property Tax Credit; if your child has a disability, ask VA social work about Chapter 18 benefits and respite; Vet Centers can support caregiving stress; use VA travel pay for caregiving appointments. (tax.wv.gov)
- Veteran single mothers (MST survivors): You can receive MST‑related care at no cost even if not enrolled; call your facility’s MST Coordinator via VHA MST directory. To plan for safety, contact IPV Assistance Program and request a warm handoff to the Women Veterans Program Manager. (mentalhealth.va.gov)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms who are veterans: Bring any discharge documents; Vet Centers will help confirm eligibility without VA enrollment. Start at Huntington Vet Center, then call Huntington VBA to sort benefits status if your DD‑214 is missing. (va.gov)
- Tribal‑specific resources: If you’re Native and buying or improving a home on trust land, ask about VA’s Native American Direct Loan; for state property tax, still claim WV’s disabled veteran credit via WV Tax, and get SSVF through WVCAP. (tax.wv.gov)
- Rural single moms with limited access: Request telehealth and home‑delivery meds; use DAV vans via DAV Transportation if you can reach a pickup hub. For food, sign up for Veterans Table and ask about homebound deliveries through DAV volunteers. (dav.org)
- Single fathers: Many of the same benefits apply—use the Women Veterans Call Center for navigation regardless of gender if MST/IPV issues are present, and Vet Centers for parenting and family counseling via Charleston, WV Vet Center. (womenshealth.va.gov)
- Language access and accessibility: Ask for interpreters or relay services through your facility; request large‑print forms; and use the VA crisis line chat if phone is difficult. For state forms, WVDVA staff can assist in person—find them at WVDVA Benefits Offices. (veteranscrisisline.net)
How to Stop Utility Shutoff in West Virginia Today
- Call your utility first: Ask for a medical or hardship payment plan and write down the arrangement. If they require proof, ask your VA clinician or social worker for a letter from your VA facility.
- Tap veteran pipelines: SSVF can pay arrears or deposits and move fast—start at WVCAP SSVF. If denied, ask your local VFW or American Legion for emergency funds and a letter of support (WVDVA can connect you through Veteran Service Organizations). (wvcap.org)
- For larger debts: Apply to reputable veteran charities and ask your WVDVA VSO to help submit a complete packet; keep copies of bills and disconnection notices. If all else fails, ask VA social work to escalate through your facility patient advocate while you pursue a short‑term move to cheaper housing via HUD‑VASH/SSVF. (department.va.gov)
DMV, ID, and Military Plates (handy state extras)
- Veteran designation on driver’s license is available at WV DMV offices—bring your DD‑214 and proofs per DMV; details and contact listed under WV DMV News—Veteran designation. Military plate applications (including Disabled Veteran plates) are under DMV Military Plate Applications. (transportation.wv.gov)
- REAL ID tips: If you still need a REAL ID, WV DMV has updated guidance and scheduling on Real ID updates; upload docs with the DMV app to save time. For general help, call 1-800-642-9066 via WV DMV Contact. (transportation.wv.gov)
Tables to keep close
Table: Key veteran crisis and navigation lines
| Topic | Contact | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Crisis support | 988 then press 1; text 838255; Veterans Crisis Line | Free, 24/7; family can call too. (veteranscrisisline.net) |
| Homelessness | 1-877-424-3838; VA Homeless hotline | Connects to SSVF/HUD‑VASH and local staff. (va.gov) |
| Women veterans | 1-855-829-6636; Women Veterans Call Center | Navigates care, benefits, maternity. (womenshealth.va.gov) |
| Claims and benefits | Huntington VBA; WVDVA offices | Book VERA; meet a state VSO. (benefits.va.gov) |
| Transportation | DAV Transportation; local VA DAV vans | Ask for the HSC for your county. (dav.org) |
Table: Where to go at a glance by situation
| Situation | First step | Backup |
|---|---|---|
| Eviction or behind on rent | 1-877-424-3838 and WVCAP SSVF | HUD‑VASH via your VA facility (va.gov) |
| Pregnant or new mom | 1-855-829-6636 WVCC | WVPM via locator (womenshealth.va.gov) |
| Need food | Veterans Table | VA social work for emergency pantry (mountaineerfoodbank.org) |
| Property taxes | WV Tax—Disabled Vet Credit | County assessor for homestead basics (tax.wv.gov) |
Table: Veterans homes and long‑term care
| Facility | Type | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| WV Veterans Home (Barboursville) | Domiciliary, independent living, women welcome | 1-304-736-1027; Veterans Home page (veterans.wv.gov) |
| WV Veterans Nursing Facility (Clarksburg) | Skilled nursing and dementia unit | 1-304-626-1600; Nursing Facility page (veterans.wv.gov) |
Table: Burial benefits and state cemetery (planning ahead)
| Resource | What it covers | Where to start |
|---|---|---|
| VA national cemeteries (Grafton, West Virginia National Cemetery) | Burial for eligible veterans, some family; allowances and markers | West Virginia National Cemetery; Grafton National Cemetery (cem.va.gov) |
| Donel C. Kinnard Memorial State Veterans Cemetery | State cemetery near Dunbar; follows NCA eligibility | 1-304-746-0026; DCKMSVC overview; Burial benefits at WVDVA (tempveterans.wv.gov) |
County‑level notes and variations (examples)
- Kanawha/Putnam/Raleigh: Use WVDVA South Charleston for claims and Beckley office for Raleigh; homestead deadlines are set by county assessors—confirm dates locally (many close by October 1) using local assessor pages like Fayette County Homestead. (veterans.wv.gov)
- Berkeley/Jefferson: Connect with Martinsburg VAMC for women’s health and HUD‑VASH; Vet Center services are available via regional sites listed on VA Vet Center pages. (va.gov)
- Cabell/Wood: For counseling, check Huntington Vet Center including Parkersburg outstation; for SSVF, ask WVCAP which subcontractor covers your county via WVCAP SSVF. (va.gov)
Ten West Virginia–specific FAQs (with straight answers)
- Can I get a state property tax break as a disabled veteran homeowner?
Yes—WV’s Disabled Veteran Real Property Tax Credit is refundable and first claimable on the 2024 state return filed in 2025; you must have a VA disability rating of 90–100% and pay property tax timely on your homestead. File per WV Tax credit guidance and bring your VA rating letter. (tax.wv.gov) - Who can help me file a VA claim near me?
Use the WVDVA office finder to meet an accredited service officer, or schedule a VERA appointment with Huntington VBA; they also hold rotating office hours at Vet Centers and WVDVA sites. (veterans.wv.gov) - How do I get maternity care through VA in WV?
Call 1-855-829-6636 and ask to be connected to your facility’s Women Veterans Program Manager; maternity is coordinated to community hospitals and includes postpartum support. See Huntington Women Veteran care and Beckley Women Veteran care for examples. (va.gov) - Where can I find veteran‑only food in WV?
The Veterans Table program gives monthly food boxes statewide to veterans—no income test—and partners with DAV drivers for some deliveries. Check dates and locations online. (mountaineerfoodbank.org) - What’s the current VA travel mileage rate?
As of 2025, VA pays $0.415/mile for eligible travel, with a monthly deductible cap; file within 30 days. See VA travel reimbursement for details. (va.gov) - Can Vet Centers see me if I’m not enrolled in VA health care?
Yes. Vet Centers provide confidential counseling even if you’re not enrolled; call the 24/7 line at 1-877-927-8387, and see Huntington Vet Center and Charleston, WV Vet Center for locations. (va.gov) - I survived MST. How do I get care in WV?
Ask to speak with your facility’s MST Coordinator (contact list on VHA MST directory). Care is free for MST‑related conditions and does not require ongoing VA enrollment. (mentalhealth.va.gov) - How do I stop an eviction this week?
Call 1-877-424-3838 (VA Homeless hotline) and request SSVF prevention; also call the WV Coordinated Entry line at 1-833-722-2014 through WVCEH. Ask for a landlord letter from your VA social worker to hold the unit while funds are arranged. (va.gov) - Does WV have a state cemetery for veterans?
Yes—the Donel C. Kinnard Memorial State Veterans Cemetery in Dunbar follows federal eligibility; call 1-304-746-0026 and see DCKMSVC. You may also pre‑check eligibility for national cemeteries like Grafton via NCA pages. (tempveterans.wv.gov) - Who leads WVDVA today, and how do I reach them?
As of early 2025, Ryan Kennedy serves as Cabinet Secretary; the central office is 1-304-558-3661. See WVDVA leadership and the Governor’s January 2025 announcement naming Secretary Kennedy. (veterans.wv.gov)
Spanish summary / Resumen en español
Esta guía rápida está dirigida a madres solteras veteranas en West Virginia. Para emergencias: llame al 988 y presione 1 (Línea de Crisis para Veteranos), al 1-877-424-3838 (Línea de Asistencia para Veteranos sin Hogar), o al 1-855-829-6636 (Centro de Llamadas para Mujeres Veteranas). Puede buscar ayuda local con Oficinas de WVDVA, beneficios y reclamos con Oficina Regional de Huntington, y vivienda con WVCAP SSVF. Para el crédito estatal de impuestos a la propiedad para veteranos con discapacidad (90–100%), vea Créditos de WV.
Nota: Esta traducción fue producida con herramientas de IA; verifique detalles críticos con las fuentes oficiales.
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.
This guide uses official sources including:
- West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance (WVDVA)
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs — Women Veterans
- VA Homeless Programs (Hotline and SSVF/HUD‑VASH info)
- WV Tax Division — Income Tax Credits for Property Taxes Paid
- Huntington VA Regional Office (VBA)
- WorkForce West Virginia (locations and veterans services)
- Mountaineer Food Bank — Veterans Table
Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.
Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur — email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.
Disclaimer
This guide provides general information for veteran single mothers in West Virginia. It is not legal, financial, tax, or medical advice. Program rules, amounts, and processing times change and can differ by county or office and by funding availability. Always confirm current eligibility and timelines with your VA facility, WVDVA office, or the WV Tax Division before applying. Call to confirm current availability before applying. (veterans.wv.gov)
Appendix: Two real‑world WV examples (to model your next steps)
- Raleigh County mom, 70% SC, 2 kids: She called 1‑877‑424‑3838; SSVF covered two months arrears and utility deposits via WVCAP SSVF and scheduled a HUD‑VASH assessment through Beckley VAMC. While waiting, she picked up a Veterans Table box and set up DAV rides for medical visits via DAV Transportation. (wvcap.org)
- Kanawha County mom, 100% P&T homeowner: She booked VERA at Huntington VBA, filed the Disabled Veteran Real Property Tax Credit on her 2024 return per WV Tax guidance, and connected with the WVDVA Women Veterans Program for peer support. (benefits.va.gov)
Final tip
If you feel stuck, use two lines at once: call 1‑855‑829‑6636 for the Women Veterans Call Center, and 1‑877‑424‑3838 for the Homeless Veterans hotline. Tell each operator you are a veteran single mom in West Virginia and need a warm handoff to local staff. Keep notes, names, and times. Then ask your nearest WVDVA office to help you finish the paperwork. (womenshealth.va.gov)
🏛️More West Virginia Resources for Single Mothers
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