VA services underutilized in Union County

Veterans Affairs in Union County is looking for more ways to reach veterans.

Reviewing the annual report for Union County Veterans Affairs on Wednesday, county supervisors and VA Director Gary Gelhaye discussed functions of the arm working to help veterans in Union County.

The VA helps veterans by providing costs for general services, such as rent assistance and utilities. Between July 2024 and August 2025, Union County’s VA assisted anywhere from four to 27 clients per month.

Costs can vary, with an average of around $256 per month provided in general services to clients. So far this year, 66 new clients have been added to VA services. In terms of total clients served, Gelhaye thinks this is a low amount of participants compared to what’s available in Union County.

Supervisor Dennis Brown estimated there were about 2,000 veterans in Union County who could use the services of the VA. Whether or not a veteran will seek assistance remains entirely up to the veteran. Supervisor Rick Friday has said he has received calls in the past from veterans looking to access services.

Yet, Gelhaye still encourages more veterans to utilize the VA services. Gelhaye has been actively seeking opportunities to spread the word about the Union County VA, encourage walk-ins to survivors or spouses who might be feeling lost or unsupported.

“I wish there was a way I could reach more people,” Gelhaye said. “Come visit me, come see me, come call me. I want to let you know what’s available out there.”

Gelhaye can be contacted by email through Gary.Gehlhaye@va.gov or unioncova@unioncountyiowa.gov, phone through (641) 782-1723 or by visiting Union County Veterans Affairs at the Union County Courthouse at 300 North Pine Street in Creston.