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Schenectady County Unveils Display Honoring Local Veterans and Announces Two New Initiatives

Photo of the Veterans Photo Wall at the Hon. KBJ Library

Schenectady County unveiled its new Veterans Photo Wall display today at the Hon. Karen B. Johnson (Central) Library. The display includes over 60 photos of local veterans that were submitted by the veterans or their family members.

The Veterans Photo Wall will be on display for the community at the Hon. Karen B. Johnson (Central) Library through the end of January. Afterward, it will move to the Schenectady County Veterans Service Agency (SCVSA) office at 797 Broadway, where it will continue to honor our local heroes.

"One of the most powerful ways to honor our veterans is by sharing their stories, and the Veterans Photo Wall does just that," said Schenectady County Legislator Holly Vellano, Chair of the Military Affairs & Veterans Committee. "Each photo represents courage, sacrifice, and a commitment to our nation that deserves recognition. Thank you to everyone who submitted photos for this meaningful tribute, and I encourage everyone to stop by, see the faces of our local heroes, and reflect on their service. This display is just the beginning—we look forward to adding to it every year as we continue to honor those who have served."

During the event Schenectady County launched two new initiatives designed to complement each other and provide comprehensive support to veterans and their families during times of need. The SCVSA’s Family Support Group program offers essential household items such as laundry detergent, body wash, baby body wash, diapers, wipes, toilet paper, paper towels, feminine hygiene products, and adult diapers. During the winter months, the program also includes blankets, gloves, hats, and scarves to help veterans stay warm and comfortable.

In tandem, the County’s Veterans Peer-to-Peer Network has introduced a Veterans Food Pantry, providing veterans and their families with access to non-perishable food items, snacks, and toiletries. Together, these initiatives address critical gaps in support, ensuring veterans receive the assistance they need when they need it most.

Veterans in need can call the SCVSA at (518) 377-2423 or the Veterans Peer-to-Peer Program at (518) 374-0526 or email vetpeersupport@schenectadycountyny.gov to request items or schedule an appointment/pickup time to access these items.

"Far too many of our veterans live on the edge, where one missed paycheck or unexpected illness can turn their lives upside down," said Legislator Vellano. "The new Family Support Group program and Veterans Peer-to-Peer Food Pantry are here to provide immediate support during these critical times, offering essential items like toiletries, household goods, and non-perishable food. These efforts reflect our commitment to ensuring veterans and their families have the resources they need to stay safe, warm, and supported, especially as winter sets in."

With over 7,200 veterans calling Schenectady County home, we recognize the invaluable contributions and sacrifices made by those who have served our nation. The County is committed to providing services to our veterans, to ensure they receive the support, resources, and recognition they deserve.

Veterans Service Agency

Our Veteran Service Agency provides comprehensive assistance to veterans, guiding them through the Department of Veterans Affairs and advising them on available benefits tailored to their service. From aiding in benefit applications to addressing queries and tracking claims through the VA system, the VSA works to help veterans receive the support they deserve.

https://www.schenectadycountyny.gov/veterans

Veterans Peer-to-Peer Network
Discover Schenectady County's PFC Joseph Dwyer program, a local initiative committed to offering peer support to our veteran community. Collaborating with various local organizations and programs, the Dwyer program ensures accessibility by meeting veterans where they are. Through hosting meetings and organizing activities, this program welcomes individuals who have served, irrespective of their veteran status, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for all.

https://www.schenectadycountyny.gov/vetpeernetwork

Honor A Veteran Program

The Honor-A-Veteran program is a collaboration between Schenectady County’s Veterans Service Agency and the County’s Honor-A-Veteran Committee to honor veterans who were either born in or currently reside in Schenectady County.

https://www.schenectadycountyny.gov/veterans