Veterans, their families and the public are invited to attend a benefits fair hosted by Sen. Claudia Kauffman Saturday, October 24 in Auburn.

Federal, state and local agencies will answer questions and provide valuable information about health, education and other programs available to veterans.

"There are an estimated 640,000 veterans living in our state," Kauffman said. "Unfortunately, not all of them are accessing critical services they need and deserve. They should not be falling through the cracks. This fair will raise awareness."

Helping Washington’s veterans is one of Kauffman's top legislative priorities. During the 2009 legislative session, the legislature passed a bill which requires the Department of Veterans Affairs to study ways to increase veterans' access to state and federal assistance programs.

The department must submit a report to the legislature next year.

"I look forward to seeing that report," Kauffman said. "We need to know what can be done to get more of our veterans connected to services that will improve their lives."