Assemblyman Matt Slater (R,C-Yorktown) has announced two veteran service organizations in the 94th Assembly District, Carmel VFW and Putnam Valley VFW, have been awarded $75,000 and $72,500, respectively, for much-needed capital improvements through the Veteran’s Nonprofit Capital Grant Program. The Veterans’ Nonprofit Capital Grant Program has served as a pillar of assistance for essential community organizations committed to aiding New York’s esteemed veterans, service members and their families.

These grants will empower Carmel VFW and Putnam Valley VFW to elevate their services, enhance facilities and ultimately cultivate a more enriched livelihood for them. Slater has passionately championed his district’s VFWs, recognizing them as enduring symbols of the heroic individuals who selflessly risked their lives for their communities. Back in October of this year, in addition to these grants, he was able to secure a $75,000 grant for Mahopac’s VFW.

With their grants, Carmel VFW will be renovating their auditorium and Putnam Valley VFW plan to install ADA ramps and replace their roof and HVAC.

“I am honored to announce two local veterans service organizations have received these essential grants,” said Slater. “All across the Hudson Valley our VFWs and American Legions are in need of enhancements to continue serving the brave men and women who have defended our country but face the financial challenges of funding these projects. This now marks three veterans organizations in the 94th Assembly District that are receiving funding from New York State and I am excited to see the much-needed enhancements and renovations they will bring about.”

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

Carmel Supervisor Mike Cazzari said, “The Carmel VFW is a vital piece of our community that serves our veterans every day. The town is very appreciative of this investment by the state that will help with some crucial improvements to the VFW’s building.”

Putnam Valley Supervisor Jackie Annabi said, “This state investment in the Putnam Valley VFW will go a long way in modernizing this important facility that serves our local heroes. We thank all of our partners who made this a reality and look forward to seeing the improvements come to fruition.”