In a move intended to bolster the spaces where veterans congregate and receive support, Governor Kathy Hochul has announced a critical funding boost for veterans organizations throughout New York State. A total of $1 million in grants is being disseminated across the state, providing financial aid for a range of infrastructure projects designed to improve the facilities that serve its veterans, service members, and their families. This gesture affirms the state's continued commitment to honor those who have served.
The third round of the Veterans’ Nonprofit Capital Program is allocating funds between $25,000 and $75,000 for various capital improvement projects, as confirmed by reports from the Governor’s Office official website. Grants will be used for a multitude of upgrades, including, but not limited to new roofing, HVAC systems revamp, and electrical work. The improvements are not just aesthetic, adaptations are also being made to ensure ADA compliance as well as kitchen and common space renovations.
With recipients spread over six regions including the Capital Region and Western New York, this round of grants will fund necessary enhancements such as parking lot reconstructions, generator installations, and facility accessibility upgrades. Robert J. Rodriguez, President and CEO of the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY), expressed pride in administering the program. "These capital improvements will help ensure that veterans have access to safe, modern facilities where they can gather, receive services, and maintain the important connections forged through their service to our nation," Rodriguez conveyed in a statement obtained by the Governor's Office.
Accordingly, New York State Department of Veterans' Services General Counsel Jonathan Fishbein discussed the program's impact. "Round three of the Veterans’ Nonprofit Capital Program was one of our strongest to date, both in the quality of applications received and in the range of services supported across the state," Fishbein said as detailed in the Governor's Office announcement. He described how veterans organizations state-wide, are reaping the benefits of this initiative, providing tailored support to those who have donned the nation's uniform.
Since its inception, the Veterans' Nonprofit Capital Program has been a conduit for $4.6 million in awards to veterans' groups across New York. Funded projects encompass architecture, design, engineering, construction, reconstruction, rehabilitation, expansion, and purchasing of relevant furnishings or equipment.
