Michael J. Handy Veterans' Service Center

"I am in a shelter and have done all I can to get in contact with someone since they changed my Assigned Center to this Brooklyn address even though I am in Queens. I need my voucher approved for my child and all I have been getting is the run arround. Saddest part is I have filled out every document to perfection, I have made multiple calls and fax request. As a veteran who finished school and trying to work, this is disappointing and depressing to think I may not have this job in the next week, just because someone couldnt call and confirm or at the very least update me on my voucher. Even had Hra Queens and my Case Manager fax over a request, still nothing. I do not bother anyone, keep to myslef and just want to keep my job."

"I was referred to the Michael J. Handy Veterans Service Center on Chapel Street in Brooklyn by a suggestion of a VA HUD-VASH staff-person. I did not go to this agency for the unprofessional, condescending, passive-aggressive attitude and statements of the 50-ish, African-American female worker that I met with. This woman angered me by implying that I am not a man because I was not as knowledgeable about my situation as I could have been (she actually stated that I was acting like a boy, and should “step up”). Individuals like this woman are the reason that many vets, and also probably why many Black men do not come to or are hesitant to come to government agencies for support. I AM A BLACK, 60 YEAR-OLD, STILL EMPLOYED FULL-TIME, AIR FORCE VETERAN OF MULTIPLE ENLISTMENTS AND FOR THIS WOMAN IN HER ROLE AS A WELFARE WORKER TO ATTEMPT TO DEFINE MANHOOD TO ME IS UNACCEPTABLE! **UPDATE, JANUARY 2019: With much-needed coaching from my HUD-VASH counselor I returned to the Michael J Handy Veterans Center to submit additional documents, and I found that during this instance (and during 2 additional visits) the staff were extremely helpful, hospitable, and professional. The individuals rendering assistance to me were knowledgeable, and took lengths to ensure my understanding of some of the administrative processes facilitated on my behalf. Their support and civility alleviated much of the uncertainty and tension of turning to others for assistance. And special kudos to supervisory staff Ms “R” and Ms Beckford; I am a vet, but I say to the staff of the Michael J Handy Veterans Center: “Thank YOU for YOUR service!”"

"Excellent"