Eligibility criteria
In order to qualify for this benefit program, you or your child must be the natural child of an individual who served in the Republic of Vietnam between January 9, 1962 and May 7, 1975, and you or any of your household members must be facing Spina Bifida.

Description
VA provides a Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment program for natural children diagnosed with spina bifida (except spina bifida occulta) born to certain Vietnam veterans. This program enables a qualified child to prepare for and attain suitable employment. Services may include counseling and rehabilitative services, education, training, and employment services leading to suitable employment. VA pays for the cost of these services. A vocational training program may not begin before a child's 18th birthday or the date of completion of secondary schooling, whichever comes first. Depending on the need, a child may be provided up to 24 months of full-time training. Entitlement to vocational training is based on eligibility determinations made by the VA Regional Office. Claimants submit applications on VA Form 21-0304. If the VA Regional Office grants a monthly monetary award for an individual with spina bifida, the individual should contact the local VA Regional Office to request vocational training.

Managing organization
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs http://www.va.gov/

Program contact information & web resources
For more information about this program, visit:
http://www.vba.va.gov/bln/vre/voc_rehab.htm

You may also call the following toll-free number, which can refer you to your local VA office:
800-827-1000