In a significant move to bolster support for veterans and their families, Governor Kathy Hochul has unveiled a series of new grant funding opportunities aimed at enhancing services and facilities dedicated to veterans throughout New York State. These initiatives encompass capital improvements for veterans service organizations, emergency housing assistance, and legal support programs.
Enhancing Veterans’ Facilities
The Veterans’ Nonprofit Capital Grant Program (VNCP), administered by the New York State Department of Veterans’ Services in collaboration with the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY), is set to enter its third round of funding.
Following two successful rounds that distributed over $3.5 million to eligible veterans’ groups, this upcoming round will offer at least $1.35 million in capital grants, with individual awards ranging from $25,000 to $75,000. These funds are designated for critical upgrades to facilities serving veterans, including projects such as new roofs, ADA-compliant modifications, and kitchen and common area renovations.
To assist organizations in preparing for the application process, a technical assistance webinar is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, December 3. This session will guide participants through the prequalification process in the Statewide Financial System (SFS), formerly known as the Grants Gateway. The webinar will be recorded and made available for future reference. Interested parties can access the webinar through the Grants Management website.
Emergency Housing Assistance for Veterans
Addressing the pressing issue of veteran homelessness, the Veterans Emergency Housing Assistance Fund has been re-opened with an additional $400,000 in cash assistance available to eligible veterans. Administered by the New York State Department of Veterans’ Services, this fund provides up to $2,000 per applicant to cover emergency housing expenses.
Eligible emergencies include situations such as home damage from natural disasters, accessibility renovations due to disability, temporary shelter needs, essential appliance repairs, and assistance with overdue rent, utilities, or property taxes resulting from unforeseen circumstances. Funding is allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
Legal Support Through the Justice for Heroes Grant Program
In an effort to address unmet legal needs among veterans, service members, and their families, the Justice for Heroes grant program is preparing for its third round of funding, set to open in January 2025. This initiative provides up to $50,000 per year to law schools that establish or enhance experiential legal education programs offering free services to the military community.
These services encompass a range of legal issues, including discharge upgrades, appellate cases, foreclosure or eviction prevention, and other essential civil legal matters. The upcoming round will make available a total of $250,000 per year, renewable for up to three years.
State Officials Emphasize Commitment to Veterans
Governor Hochul reaffirmed the state’s dedication to its veterans, stating, “New York State has always stood by our veterans and their families, and today we are reaffirming that commitment by expanding access to critical resources that support their well-being.” She emphasized the importance of improving facilities, providing emergency housing assistance, and ensuring access to legal help as reflections of the state’s unwavering dedication to those who have served the country.
New York State Department of Veterans’ Services Commissioner Viviana DeCohen highlighted the significance of these grants, noting that they “enable essential upgrades to veterans’ service organization facilities, provide emergency housing assistance, and address unmet legal needs through law school programs.” She expressed gratitude for Governor Hochul’s unwavering commitment to enhancing the lives of veterans and ensuring they receive the support they deserve.
Building on Previous Investments
These new funding rounds build upon previous investments aimed at supporting veterans and nonprofit organizations across the state. In July 2024, Governor Hochul announced more than $40 million in capital grants for over 130 nonprofit organizations serving New York veterans and families. This included nearly $40 million to support human service organizations and $1.3 million to support veterans through the Veterans’ Nonprofit Capital Program.
Additionally, in September 2023, the state awarded $2.6 million in grants to 39 veterans organizations through the Veterans’ Nonprofit Capital Program. These grants supported efforts to expand and enhance quality services available to veterans, service members, and their families, funding projects such as new roofs, ADA-compliant upgrades, and kitchen and common area renovations.
Looking Ahead
As New York State continues to prioritize the well-being of its veterans, these grant programs represent a comprehensive approach to addressing various challenges faced by the veteran community. By investing in facility improvements, providing emergency housing assistance, and supporting legal services, the state aims to honour the sacrifices of its veterans and ensure they receive the support necessary to thrive in their post-service lives.
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