Program Issuing Grants to Dutchess County Veterans Organizations Announced

An exciting announcement from Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro regarding funding for veterans programs and initiatives will provide opportunities to better the lives of our local veterans.  Along with the Dutchess County Division of Veterans Services, County Executive Molinaro shared the news of The Veterans Microgrant Program that will 'enhance actives and programming that addresses veterans needs or recognize the service of local veterans,' with the funding for this program secured this past June.

What Is The Veterans Microgrant Program?

Described as one-time grants that will be allocated to local non-profit veteran's organizations and municipalities, the funding will be used for (c)(19)/501 (c)(3) organizations and municipalities to enhance existing activities and programs for veterans.

Further explanation of the funding goes on to explain that grants can be awarded up to $15,000 per organization or municipality.  Those groups can then allocate the funds towards the needs of their specific organization, including but not limited to equipment, resources or other one-time expenses, as well as expansion of existing programs or services, or even development of new programs.

Some specific examples for fund allocations include:

• Plaques, banners or monuments honoring veterans
• Event expenses associated with honoring veterans like a holiday party or picnic
• Capital infrastructure work to a facility space that's primary purpose is veterans' services

How Can Groups Apply?

The Veterans Microgrant Program is application-based, and submissions will be accepted on a rolling basis while funds are available.  Those organizations/municipalities that serve veterans of the US Armed Forces in Dutchess County are encouraged to apply, and priority funding will be given to those who do not already contract with the county to provide their services.

Each organization or municipality will be permitted to submit one application, and the funds should be utilized within one year of being granted.

The link for full details and guidelines about the grant program, as well as the application link can be found here.

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Adam Roche, Veterans Services Director for Dutchess County shared the following:

I am thrilled that the County has created this program to help our veterans. Every day we put focus on giving veterans the help and resources they have earned for their service time. This grant is another great step in bettering the lives of our local heroes.

Dutchess County will be hosting a 'Red White and You' Veterans Picnic the first weekend in August.  General veterans resources for Dutchess County residents can be found here.