Our Mission
City Council's Veterans Advisory Commission (VAC) was established to proactively serve the veterans of our city by connecting them to the benefits and services they rightfully deserve. We strive to locate and refer veterans to the appropriate government or social service agencies to provide them with the counseling or services they require. We maintain continuous contact with veterans' organizations, as well as governmental and other service providers, to assess the needs of our veterans and to serve as vocal advocates to see those needs are met.
For more information please call one of our benefits advisors at (215) 686-3256.
A Message from Philadelphia City Council President Kenyatta Johnson
As Philadelphia City Council President, and as the proud son of a U.S. Army veteran, I extend my deepest gratitude to the brave men and women who have served our nation in uniform. Our city owes you, and your families, an unpayable debt of gratitude.
I want every veteran in Philadelphia to know that you are not forgotten, and you are not alone. The Philadelphia Office of Veterans Affairs has created this website to provide information and access to the resources, benefits, and opportunities you deserve.
Philadelphia’s veterans embody courage, sacrifice, and service — values that strengthen our neighborhoods and inspire all of us. Whether you served overseas or supported missions here at home, your commitment has helped secure the freedoms we hold dear.
Together, the members of Philadelphia City Council and Philadelphia Office of Veterans Affairs continue to honor your sacrifices not just in words, but through concrete action that improves your quality of life.
Thank you for your service. May God bless you, your families, and Philadelphia.
Sincerely,
Kenyatta Johnson
President, Philadelphia City Council
A Letter from the Director
As a proud Army Veteran who served for 14 years it is both an honor and a privilege to serve as the Director of the Office of Veterans Affairs for the City of Philadelphia.
The City of Philadelphia holds a special place in the heart of our nation’s military history. As the birthplace of America—and of the United States Army, Navy, and Marine Corps—our city’s commitment to those who have worn the uniform runs deep. In 1957, the Philadelphia City Council established the Veterans Advisory Commission to uphold that tradition by supporting our Veterans, transitioning service members, and their families.
Today, that mission continues through the combined efforts of the Office of Veterans Affairs, the Veterans Advisory Commission, and the Philadelphia City Council. Together, we are committed to connecting our Veteran community with the resources, benefits, and recognition they deserve.
Whether in peacetime or conflict, at home or abroad, every service member makes a profound sacrifice. Though our time in uniform may have ended, our duty to one another has not. We remain bound by our shared commitment to serve, uplift, and honor our fellow brothers and sisters-in-arms.
On behalf of the City of Philadelphia, I extend my deepest gratitude to all who have served—and to the families who stood beside them. Let us also take a moment to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our freedoms. We carry their legacy forward in all that we do.
I look forward to working alongside you and for you, as we strengthen the support systems and visibility our Veterans so richly deserve.
Sincerely,
Gregory Wright, Jr.
Director of Veteran Affairs