"The Cuyahoga County Veterans Service Commission has offered to cover the cost of rent, mortgage, utilities and food for veterans attending college under the Post-9/11 GI Bill who are still waiting for financial assistance from the Department of Veterans Affairs," The Plain Dealer reports. "Robert Schloendorn, executive director of the commission, said qualified vets can apply for vouchers to pay for housing and food expenses, with benefits based on a sliding scale, but there is no limit on utility costs. The commission is not be able to cover the cost of books, Schloendorn said. Nationally, the VA has processed only about half the 25,000 veteran enrollment certificates submitted by colleges, causing delays in payments for tuition, books and living expenses offered under the bill, which took effect Aug. 1."