The County Veterans Service Officer (CVSO) assists veterans, dependents, and survivors by providing information, assistance, counseling, and referrals on a wide range of subjects, benefits, and veteran programs. CVSO's are trained to provide information on the following topics: - Transportation assistance to VA Appointments - Offers complete claims service and explanation of VA procedures - Provides follow-up service once a decision has been made - GI loans - Compensation and pension - Survivors benefits - Education benefits - On-the-job and apprenticeship training - State benefits - Social Security benefits - Employment and unemployment - Small business development information - Corrections of military records - Review of discharges - Medical and dental treatment - Hospitalization or outpatient treatment - Nursing home care - Residency at the State Veterans' Home - Rehabilitation - Information and payment assistance for alcoholism and drug dependency treatment - Burial benefits - Obtaining flags - Information on community programs Veterans are encouraged to register their discharge information (DD Form 214, Report of Separation) with the County Registrar of Deeds Office.

Provides peer support and financial assistance to individuals and families who have lost a loved one to suicide. Examples consist of financial assistance for grief counseling, burial expenses, clean-up costs, legal fees, and other suicide-related expenses. The Program Coordinator supports clients with referrals and resources to additional financial assistance programs and/or therapeutic support if needed. Also provides peer and emotional support and resource referrals for a year. Peer support is provided through telehealth meetings and check-ins.

Considers requests for medical and funeral assistance. Other requests for financial assistance are considered on a case by case basis.

Provides limited emergency financial assistance as a last resort for those considered indigent and are residents of Brookings County. The office may help with rent, utilities, prescriptions, emergency medical expenses, county burials and funerals, eye care referrals, and admittance fees for voluntary mental, alcohol, or drug treatment to the Human Services Center in Yankton, SD.

Provides emotional, financial, educational assistance and support to families experiencing the loss of a child regardless of gestation or age. Support provided includes care packages for loved ones of the child that passed; financial assistance with the cost of a casket or urn; handmade stuffed bears that weigh the same as the baby birth weight; connection/support from other Loss Moms; lactation kits and angel outfits to hospitals.