Mass. vets bonus program funds go unused
The Associated Press
Posted : Tuesday Aug 18, 2009 7:47:07 EDT

BOSTON — Up to one-third of eligible veterans have not participated in a state program that provides as much as $1,000 to military personnel returning from active duty.

About $10 million set aside for the 2006 “Welcome Home” program is still available, and state officials are trying to find ways to get those who have not benefited from the program to sign up.

The program pays Massachusetts veterans who served in the armed forces, the National Guard or reserves for at least six months after Sept. 11, 2001, from $500 to $1,000, depending on where they were deployed.

Officials tell The Boston Globe some veterans do not participate because the application process can be burdensome, it is hard to get the word out to some, and some may see the money as a handout.

Ellie