Written By: Kelly Gross

The Department of Veterans Affairs was praised by U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords today for making it easier for veterans and changing the way they receive their benefits.

Now veterans can apply for emergency education benefits online, instead of having to travel far to receive them according to Secretary of Veterans Affairs, Eric K. Shinseki.

Giffords criticized the former method of having to travel all the way to Phoenix to receive benefits.

"It now will be easier for veterans in southern and rural Arizona to apply for the education benefits they deserve," Giffords said.

Under the GI bill, there are currently more than 3,400 veterans attending college in southern Arizona and approximately only 75 veterans have received benefits.

Veterans have not been able to buy their textbooks and have been forced to take out loans in order to afford college expenses.

Giffords suggested that veterans use computers in public libraries.  Giffords has also offered veterans attending college in Arizona to use her computers to sign up for benefits.  Her Tucson office is at 1661 N. Swan, Suite 112, and her Sierra Vista office is at 77 Calle Portal, Suite B-160.

Veterans can begin to apply for emergency education funding starting October 2 at www.va.gov, or can request transportation by calling the Veterans Medical Center in Tucson at 520-629-1819.