State Funding for Local Veterans' Service Agencies

Committed in Governor David A. Paterson's 2010-11 Executive

ALBANY, NY (01/30/2010)(readMedia)-- Local Veterans' Service Agencies across New York State will continue to receive state funding in the total amount of $1,177,000 to assist in meeting the needs of veterans and their families. Governor David Paterson's Executive Budget proposes to continue funding at the 2009-10 level, which was a 42% increase from the previous year.

"The City, County and State partnership has made the difference for our veterans and their families," said Governor David A. Paterson. "Local Veterans' Service Agencies provide crucial services and support for New York's veterans and their families, and my budget sustains our commitment to those programs."

"All levels of government are currently facing historic budget difficulties, and maintaining the State's financial assistance for Local Veterans' Service Agencies is just one way we're working to alleviate the fiscal burden on local governments during these challenging economic times," Governor Paterson added

New York State invests $1,177,000 in the veteran service efforts delivered by our state's Counties and Cities. These vital services include benefits counseling, healthcare enrollment, referral to other federal, state and local programs, burial assistance and help with locating veteran's service records.

"The Governor's continued support for our Local Veterans' Service Agencies is critically important to ensure our veterans and their families retain local access to top-notch benefits counseling services", said James D. McDonough, Director of the New York State Division of Veterans' Affairs.

"On behalf of the County Veterans' Service Officers Association of the State of New York, I would like to express my thanks to Governor Paterson for his commitment to the County Veteran Service Agencies. The state's investment acknowledges our partnership and helps us better serve New York's veterans and their families." said Nelson Eddy Rivera, President, County Veterans' Service Officers Association.

"We are pleased to see that the New York State Division of Veterans' Affairs recognizes the contributions of its partnering Veteran Service Agencies and has demonstrated such by maintaining the current level of funding to aid these localities." Added Ned D. Foote, President, New York State Council/Vietnam Veterans of America

The New York Division of Veterans' Affairs supports and serves its veterans and their families through a network of 72 locations, delivering comprehensive assessment, benefit counseling and referral to federal, state and local programs

Veterans Benefit Counselors can be contacted by calling 1-888-838-7697 or by visiting the Division's website at www.veterans.ny.gov