VETERANS SERVICE AGENCY REPORT
June 5, 2025 - 12:00 PM
Director's Report
* Local Activities
o Our Administrative Assistant April Barschow has achieved accreditation by the National Association of County Veterans Service Officers, to provide a wider range of services to our local veterans and surviving spouses.
o On April 29th, VSO Zack Jones attended the National Purple Heart Hall of Honor unveiling their new Veterans Welcome Kiosk in New Windsor. Zack was able to meet and network with Directors and VSOs from almost every county in the State to discuss challenges resulting from recent VA policy change.
o On five separate dates in April and May, our Clerk Sheldon Dillon assisted Sharon Ferber at the Community Assistance Center to distribute pallets of food.
o On May 13th, I met with David Potash, President of SCCC and Stacey Johnson, Dean of Students to establish a resource guide to assist veteran students in obtaining benefits and services within the VA and local community. Our Clerk Sheldon Dillon did a fantastic job obtaining contact information to assist with any situation the students may encounter.
o On May 16th, Senior VSO Joe Putnam attended the Vet 2 Vet 'Reel Bonds' veterans fishing event at Hanofee Park in Liberty. Joe made contact with veterans in need of services and was able to assist them.
o On May 17th, I attended the New York State Elks Association Annual Convention at the Villa Roma Resort. We discussed annual programs for veterans to include the Honor Flight and the Camp Bristol retreat. A workshop provided by Fred Sganga, Executive Director of the Stony Brook NY State Veterans Home covered programs offered at that facility. There are currently 5 State Veterans Homes operating in New York. A 70% or higher disabled veteran pays no fee for long term nursing home care. The spouse of an honorably discharged veteran that served at least 90 days of wartime service is also eligible for long term care. Other topics covered were expanded pens...
Click here for full text