Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon (D-C Utica/Rome) helped deliver much-needed support and resources for local veterans in the 2023-24 state budget.

"New York is home to hundreds of thousands of veterans who have selflessly served our country. It is our duty to provide them with the support they need to thrive when they get back home,” said Buttenschon. “By investing in veterans’ programs and organizations, we ensure they receive the care, assistance and opportunities they deserve, honoring their fight to protect the values we hold dear. I will keep serving as a strong voice for our veterans to ensure their needs are met."

Organizations and services that Buttenschon helped restore or provide new funding for in this year’s state budget include:

• Clear Path for Veterans, a state program providing support services and opportunities to veterans to help ease the transition back into civilian life
• Helmets to Hardhats, a state program to connect veterans to apprenticeships and careers in the construction industry
• The Outdoor Rx Program, which helps veterans overcome barriers to spending time in nature, fostering healing and promoting overall well-being
• Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Department of New York, a non-profit that helps veterans access benefits, promote patriotism and build camaraderie
• Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA) – New York State Council, a non-profit that advocates for veterans’ rights and educates the public about the history and impact of the Vietnam War
• Dwyer Veterans Peer-to-Peer Support Program, bringing veterans together for socialization and friendship, promoting well-being and combatting the isolation that can follow servicemembers’ return home

The budget also provides:

• $1.1 million for homeless veterans’ support services
• $500,000 to establish a database of veterans’ memorials
• $300,000 for mobile veteran service centers, which help individuals in rural communities and with limited transportation to access benefits and services

“These programs have an immeasurable impact on our veterans and their families. It’s our duty to ensure these programs are funded as we help these brave and selfless individuals transition back to civilian life,” said Buttenschon.