As a result of their deliberations committees may make recommendations which they include in their reports for the consideration of the House of Commons or the Government. Recommendations related to this study are listed below.

Recommendation 1

That Veterans Affairs Canada increase its outreach activities in areas where Legion branches or other veterans’ organizations have closed down in order to reach veterans who may be feeling isolated or alone, and that the outreach be focused on mental health supports and connecting those veterans to other organizations.

Recommendation 2

That Veterans Affairs Canada study the ability of veterans’ organizations to reach veterans through telephone, or digital means, and provide appropriate assistance in training, equipment, or resources to help these organizations continue to serve their veteran population through digital technologies.

Recommendation 3

That the Government of Canada, in concert with Provincial and Municipal Governments consider renting space from non-profit veterans’ organizations for COVID-19 related purposes or any other activities.

Recommendation 4

That the Canada Emergency Business Account be available to veterans’ organizations, including those that serve seniors, that rely on fundraising and revenues from rentals, as a grant to assist these volunteer-run organizations to remain open and support their community.

Recommendation 5

That the Government of Canada, recognizing that The Royal Canadian Legion is primarily run by volunteers, create an emergency fund that the Legion can access in the event of a national crisis.

Recommendation 6

That Veterans Affairs Canada:

• recognize the key role that the Veterans Transition Network plays in providing mental health support to veterans;
• confirm the status of the Veterans Transition Network as an authorized service provider with the Department;
• reinstate the agreement whereby the cost of treatment is covered by the Department for veterans it refers to the program.

Recommendation 7

That the Government of Canada immediately extend the assistance provided through the Veterans Organizations Emergency Support Fund should these organizations be unable to resume normal operations in 2021.

Recommendation 8

That Veterans Affairs Canada immediately extend support to small veterans’ organizations that are run by volunteers, such at the Persian Gulf War Veterans of Canada, through the Veterans Organizations Emergency Support Fund with a simple application process.

Recommendation 9

That Veterans Affairs Canada undertake regular assessments of the financial health of veterans’ organizations, beginning in June and December 2021, and in June and December 2022, enhance its assistance programs, including the Veteran and Family Well-Being Fund, and make them available after the pandemic.