POUGHKEEPSIE – Eleven veteran organizations learned that Dutchess County has awarded $150,000 in micro-grants to help establish new programming or continue existing activities that are designed to have a positive impact on Dutchess County veterans. The grants funding under Dutchess County Executive William “Bill” O’Neil this year is $30,000 less than the monies provided under Congressman Marc Molinaro, the immediate past Dutchess County Executive; however, all eligible applications submitted were approved and funded with the current year’s allocation.
O’Neil, a former Army captain, touted the grants, saying, “Honoring and providing for our veterans is a large priority here in Dutchess County and these microgrants are just a small way to show our appreciation. These brave men and women have put their lives on the line for us and we need to make sure they are taken care of when they return home.”
Dutchess County’s Veterans Microgrant Program provided grant awards of up to $15,000 per organization or municipality to be used for purchases or needs, including equipment, building repairs, resources, or other one-time expenses that help enhance program offerings, as well as make programs more accessible for veterans.
The grant awards are as follows:
- Vail Wolff McKenna Frye Post 170 in Poughkeepsie received $15,000 for a roof repair/replacement project to repair flaws created by time and Mother Nature. Post Commander Richie Smith said, “We are thankful for the county’s support that will help us hire professional help to repair the roof above our members’ heads.”
Town of Poughkeepsie resident Ryan Wilson, who lives near the post commended the county’s help. “Given the money that our government spends on questionable programs every day, $15,000 to help heroes have a safe roof over their heads at the VFW is a small price to pay for the sacrifices our veterans and their families make on our behalf every day.”
- Arlington American Legion Post 1302 in Poughkeepsie was awarded $15,000 for the purpose of replacing a 30-year-old refrigeration unit along with proper disposal of the antiquated existing equipment The air circulation project will be coinciding the post’s spring cleanup.
- Veterans Sportsmens Association (VSA) in Pleasant Valley received $13,500 to supplement the county funding which will assist the officers in proving sports gear, office equipment, and training
- American Legion Hasler-Kamp Post #215 received $13,000 to aid in equipment purchases and general repair. replace items including pop-up tents and banners used during events in the area, and replace flags and grave markers. Purchase materials such as awards and recognition certificates medals, and wall emblems. Creation of a website informing people about recruiting efforts and community involvement. The funding will also offset anyone for Hometown Hero banners honoring local veterans.
- Town of Pleasant Valley was designated a national Purple Heart Town and awarded $15,000.
Pleasant Valley Town Clerk MaryBeth Muir began looking into the Purple Heart designation while leading the Hometown Heroes banner program, with committee members Jeff Cady, Joey Luciano, and Lisa Fister. Muir said the designation is important to her because “The bravery and courage of our soldiers and sailors injured in battle should not go unnoticed.” The Purple Heart program, according to Muir, will have signage at both ends of Route 44 at the town lines, purple lighting to light the memorial, and other details that have not been released.
- Village of Fishkill was awarded $15,000 to assist with the Hometown Heroes Banner program in the village. The money will help with the printing of hero banners as well as the ancillary hardware needed to mount banners.The funding serves two purposes: Acquire supplies, landscaping elements and the cost of their installation at the existing Veterans’ Memorial and help lower the cost of the banner program for veterans and their families to encourage as many veterans to participate as possible.
- Stanford Fire Company No. 1, Inc. received $7,500 to help with the Town of Stanford Veterans’ Recognition. The money also includes purchase of plaques, military banners, flags, and monuments as well as display cases for Veterans information and memorabilia.
- Town of Poughkeepsie recevided $12,500 to support their ongoin 95% is done Veterans Recognition Programs. The money will also help to place new banners for each branch of service at the Dutchess County War Memorial and displaying Hometown Heros Banners in the Town of Poughkeepsie.
- American Legion Post 739 Received $13,500 to replace entry doors, refrigerator, and dehumidifier and update building structure for Post 739. Purchase a year’s supply of flags to be flown on the walkway honoring deceased veterans, as well as flags to mark veteran graves for Memorial Day. Purchase microphones for sound system and refreshments for Memorial Day ceremonies.
- Hudson Valley Hospice Foundation received $15,000 for their programming that will expand programming to more county veterans. Increase access and improve the quality of care for veterans with “We Honor Veterans standards” and educate veterans on programming available to them. Host Veterans Day breakfast for Dutchess County Veterans.
Adam Roche, Director of the County’s Division of Veterans’ Services, said, “We are honored to provide another round of microgrants to local veteran’s organizations, especially after hearing the successful impact last year’s funds made. The battle-heartened Marine also thanked the county leaders that made the grants possible.
In 2022, the Dutchess Veterans Microgrant program provided grants to 15 organizations and municipalities with $180,000 in total funding.
For more information on available veterans services throughout Dutchess County visit dutchessny.gov/veterans.
