Assemblyman Matt Slater (R,C-Yorktown) announced significant progress toward improving the quality of life for New York’s veterans after securing a $75,000 grant for the Mahopac VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars) post. In the governor’s executive budget proposal, she proposed removing funding for 17 veterans’ programs that had been added by the Legislature the previous year, amounting to a total of $2.6 million.

During the 2023 budget proposals, the restoration of these cuts had support from both parties in Albany as Slater, along with several of his colleagues, called for a restoration of the proposed cuts to fund non-profit veterans’ organizations like VFWs.

“This was a team effort from the top down. I know firsthand how important this grant is to the Mahopac community and more importantly our outstanding veterans. These men and women have given so much for us to be free so it’s only right to return the gesture. I am honored to be able to secure this grant and look forward to seeing necessary and significant advancements being made here,” said Slater.

Once the grant is received, they plan to restore the post's infrastructure by improving the roofs, repairing the windows, funding new architectural features and hopefully building a roof deck that looks over the scenic Lake Mahopac for members to enjoy.

“Assemblyman Slater is always looking out for the veterans of the Hudson Valley. We are grateful for this grant and look forward to the needed improvements," said Post Commander Luke Rathschmidt.

“With this grant, we will be able to make much-needed improvements around the post. We can’t thank Assemblyman Slater enough for all his hard work and for always having our six, leading the charge in Albany to make sure no veteran is left behind,” said VFW Vice Commander Robert Kearns.

“I am thrilled to have the opportunity to collaborate with Assemblyman Matt Slater in facilitating the realization of this important grant for the Mahopac VFW. These courageous individuals, both men and women, truly embody the admirable qualities that make our country great. Ensuring they have a safe and inviting VFW to retreat to is absolutely crucial for their well-being, as well as for the betterment of our community. It is our duty to consistently prioritize the needs of our veterans, as they are the remarkable individuals who have safeguarded the freedoms we enjoy today." said Putnam County Legislator Erin Lee Crowley. 

“Assemblyman Slater is a great advocate for Carmel and takes great care of our veterans. Our community is very appreciative of this important grant and we look forward to seeing the new enhancements to this important facility come to fruition," said Carmel Supervisor Mike Cazzari

“As always, the Town of Carmel can count on Assemblyman Slater. We want to thank him for all of this hard work getting our VFW 5491 a $75,000 grant for new windows and roof so that the building will be more efficient and reduce the costs for the members of the VFW Post,” said Carmel Town Councilman Frank Lombardi.

“Our veterans’ community is deeply appreciative of this generous support. We thank Assemblyman Slater for supporting the men and women who sacrificed for our great nation," Carmel Councilman Steve Baranowski added.

* Click here for the video of Assemblyman Matt Slater announcing VFW grant*