Another helping hand for veterans is coming from the Oregon Department of Veterans Affairs. More veterans can qualify for the OR-Vets Home Loan Program. Vets who qualify can get a 15-year fixed rate mortgage for a 3.25 or 3.75 fixed rate for 30-years. Advocates say home ownership is very important for veterans: “Establishes them in the community. It gives them a place of self worth and being like that. Plus giving them a very good rate to get into that home is something that they have deserved. Something that while they served, they earned and that is something ODVA is trying to provide there.” Mike Allegre of the Oregon Department of Veterans Affairs says even veterans who purchased homes using the separate VA Home Loan Program may be eligible for the Oregon program.