Senator Ken LaValle Budget Report: I Affirm My Support for Our Veterans in NY State Budget Funding
Long Island, NY - April 6, 2018 - Senator Ken LaValle reports that Veterans organizations received strong financial support for numerous programs in the new State Budget.
Senator LaValle said, “Many people are aware that I am a strong advocate for our Veterans. These notable men and women served our country with distinction. We need to affirm our unwavering support for those who gave so admirably for us. While I continue to work towards legislation for measures to provide adequate service credits and property tax exceptions for worthy veterans, I also make sure that their programs are properly funded in the State Budget. I am pleased to report that this year, we were particularly successful in providing state support for numerous items to assist Veterans.”
According to Senator LaValle, the NY State Budget support for Veterans includes:
- $3.7 million for the Joseph P. Dwyer Peer-to-Peer Services Program. This successful program, which is based on veterans helping veterans, originated in Suffolk County
- $500,000 for the NYS Defenders Association Veterans Defense Program
- $220,000 to expand the Veterans Defense Program to Long Island
- $450,000 for the Veteran's Mental Health Training Initiative;
- $200,000 for Warrior Salute;
- $100,000 for the Veterans Justice Project;
- $100,000 for the SAGE Veterans Project;
- $50,000 for the Vietnam Veterans of America New York State Council;
- $200,000 for Helmets-to-Hardhats;
- $25,000 for the Veterans Miracle Center;
- $125,000 for Veterans of Foreign Wars NYS Chapter Field Service Operations
In addition, the budget expands the eligibility criteria for veterans to participate in the state's Home for Heroes program, helping veterans with disabilities find affordable and accessible housing.
“The 2018-19 State Budget reflects my ongoing commitment to helping our veterans by including funding and support.” Senator LaValle continued. “We can never fully repay the debt of gratitude we owe to our courageous servicemen and servicewomen. Be assured, I will continue to fight for programs and legislation to benefit these brave individuals.