East Hudson Valley News

Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino and Veterans Affairs Director Adam Roche have announced the allocation of $100,000 in one-time grants to eight local programs through the Dutchess County Veterans Microgrant Program. These awards aim to fund projects and programs that honor and support veterans.

County Executive Sue Serino stated, “Dutchess County is honored to provide these microgrants to groups and communities that support our nation's heroes. I have seen firsthand how these wonderful local programs enrich the lives of our veterans and their families, and I am thrilled we can help expand and enhance them. Our goal is to always show our gratitude and appreciation for our local veterans and provide services and programs to empower them to live life to the fullest in recognition of their selfless service and sacrifice.”

The grants range from $5,900 to a maximum of $15,000, supporting various veteran-focused programs offered by local non-profit organizations and municipalities.

The 2024 Veterans Microgrant Program funded the following projects:

- Town of Wappinger: $15,000 for Schlathaus Park Building Improvements for Veterans’ Use.

- Town of Clinton: $8,000 for Hometown Heroes Veterans Banners.

- Hudson River Housing, Inc.: $15,000 for Accessibility and Retrofit Project at Liberty Station.

- Marine Corps League Detachment 861: $15,000 for a Lift Chair at Beacon Veterans Memorial Building.

- New York Theatre Organ Society: $5,900 for “The Big Parade” Film Screening for Veterans and Families.

- Harlem Valley VFW Post 5444: $15,000 for a New Cooler and Ice Machine for Veteran's Club.

- Hidden Hollow Farm Riding: $11,100 for Therapeutic Horse Programmatic Improvements.

- We Have Your 6, Inc.: $15,000 to Update WHY6 Workshop for veteran programs.

Dutchess County Legislature Chairman Will Truitt remarked on the initiative’s importance. “Our American heroes deserve to be recognized for their sacrifices,” he said. “These grants will ensure our veterans receive the respect and quality of life they deserve.”

Since its inception in 2022, the Veterans Microgrant Program has provided essential funding to numerous initiatives benefiting local veterans.

Veterans Affairs Director Adam Roche emphasized the program's impact. “These grants have a meaningful impact for veterans – expanding accessibility, providing vital connections with other veterans and providing community recognition that means the world to them,” he said.

For more information about Dutchess County veteran services visit www.dutchessny.gov/veterans or call 845-486-2060.