The Virginia Department of Veterans Services (DVS) opened a new office in Chesapeake this week, establishing a dedicated hub for the region's veterans, active-duty service members, and their families to access a broad range of free support services. The facility, which held its official opening on October 6, 2026, is designed as a one-stop location to help navigate benefits, employment, and health resources, addressing a long-standing need for consolidated services in the area.
Located at 111 Mill Creek Parkway, the office is one of 38 DVS locations across the Commonwealth, according to a report from News 3 WTKR. Its opening is seen by local advocates as a significant step in helping veterans overcome common hurdles to accessing care. Ron Riffle, a retired veteran and a district commander for the Virginia Veterans of Foreign Wars, told the news outlet that many veterans face challenges with transportation or simply don't know where to begin seeking assistance. "So, I retired 13, 14 years ago, and we didn’t have this stuff," Riffle said, highlighting the importance of the new, accessible resource.
Officials stated the office aims to assist veterans in their transition from military service to civilian life. The mission, as one official expressed in The Virginian-Pilot, is to create a place “where veterans find answers, where families find support, and where every person who walks through these doors knows that their service has not been forgotten.”
Chesapeake DVS Office: Services and Access Guide
The new DVS office provides a comprehensive suite of free services tailored to the needs of veterans, Guard and Reserve members, and their families. The programs cover critical areas such as disability claims, career services, and health care. According to the Virginia Department of Veterans Services, the office accommodates clients through both walk-in visits and scheduled appointments, which can be held in-person or virtually. The following guide details the primary services available.
| Service Category | Description of Support |
|---|---|
| Disability Claims Assistance | The office provides professional, free assistance with filing and navigating the complexities of veteran disability claims. Ron Riffle emphasized to News 3 WTKR that this is one of the most important services offered, ensuring veterans receive expert guidance without cost. |
| Employment Services | Support is available for veterans and family members seeking employment. This includes help with job searches and resume improvement to facilitate a successful transition into the civilian workforce. |
| Education & Housing Benefits | Staff can assist veterans and their families in understanding and applying for the various education and housing benefits they are entitled to as part of their service. |
| Health Care Enrollment | The office offers guidance and assistance with the process of enrolling in health care programs available to veterans, active-duty personnel, and members of the Guard and Reserve. |
| Behavioral Health Resources | As noted by the DVS, the office connects veterans and their families with a variety of available behavioral health resources and support systems. |
| Justice-Involved Veterans Support | The Virginian-Pilot reports that the office provides specialized support programs for veterans who are involved with the justice system, offering a dedicated pathway to assistance. |
How to Access Services: Location, Hours, and Contact
The Virginia Department of Veterans Services has outlined clear procedures for accessing the new Chesapeake office. The facility is equipped to serve the community through multiple channels to ensure accessibility for all eligible individuals.
The office is located at 111 Mill Creek Parkway, Suite 203, Chesapeake, Virginia 23323.
According to the official DVS announcement, the office operates using a hybrid model for client services. Veterans and their families can utilize walk-in services for immediate needs or schedule a dedicated appointment for more in-depth assistance. Appointments can be conducted either in-person at the new office or virtually for those who may have difficulty traveling.
To schedule a meeting, individuals are directed to use the official state scheduling portal. This system allows users to book a time that is convenient for them and choose their preferred meeting format. While specific hours for walk-in services were not detailed in the announcement, the availability of this option provides flexibility for those with urgent questions or who prefer not to schedule in advance.
Next Steps for Chesapeake Veterans
Veterans and their families in Chesapeake should utilize the new DVS office by either visiting during walk-in hours or scheduling an appointment to access the available services. This new facility consolidates numerous state and federal resources into a single, accessible location, removing previous barriers to access for the local military community. For the most up-to-date information, the DVS office's official website or direct phone line will provide the most current information regarding hours, services, and appointment availability.
Sources
- Virginia Department of Veterans Services opens new Chesapeake office for veterans, families — News 3 WTKR Norfolk
- New veterans services office opens in Chesapeake: “It’s about making sure they have the support they need” — The Virginian-Pilot
- Virginia Department of Veterans Services Opens New Office in Chesapeake | Newsroom — DVS
