With the help of U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL14), hundreds of veterans, seniors, troops, families and neighbors in the Tampa Bay area recovered more than $1.6 million in unpaid federal benefits in 2016. Nearly half—$773,132—was owed to our local veterans for benefits they have earned.

“My team and I are here to cut the red tape. Families and neighbors can count on me to assist with matters regarding Social Security, IRS, passports, immigration, VA, Medicare, military or any other federal agency. I am here to help,” U.S. Rep. Castor said.

U.S. Rep. Castor also worked to secure more than $300 million in federal grants this year to create jobs, invest in education and infrastructure, and bolster the important work of local partners. Among the federals grants won this year are $6 million to boost STEM education opportunities for Hispanic students at Hillsborough Community College, nearly $10 million for upgrades at Tampa International Airport and HART, and $5.8 million to the University of South Florida as part of the largest HHS navigator grant in Florida to support 2017 enrollment in the federal health insurance marketplace.

“I intend to be just as determined in 2017 to stand up for our community and fight for the benefits veterans and others have earned. My hard-working neighbors and students are my top priority,” U.S. Rep. Castor added.

Residents in Florida Congressional District 14 can call U.S. Rep. Castor’s Tampa office at 813-871-2817 or visit www.Castor.house.gov for assistance.

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