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NYC Department of Veterans' Services (DVS) Weekly Newsletter
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Message from Deputy Commissioner Jeff Roth
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My grandfather carried a pocket-sized bible during WWII as his unit marched to defeat tyranny. I carried that same bible during my first deployment, not knowing where that path would lead. I felt inspired to scrawl my name under his on the inside cover while taking in the magnificence of a sunrise from the summit of Mt. Sinai.
George S. Roth 1943
Jeffrey D. Roth 2004
I wondered how he felt when he penned his name and recorded the year. Was he emboldened? Was he afraid? Did monotony fuse each day with the next?
I’m also reminded of my brother. He died in the Army. And of my other grandfather, who served in WWII and Vietnam. What paths did they walk?
That bible is with me now in the Middle East. This time, I’m protecting the force from the pandemic. The pages are worn and tattered, my spirit is not.
Somehow, this little book reminds me that this is all part of something bigger, woven into the larger struggle of human life with its fragility, ups and downs, and celebrations.
Pride this year isn't marked with parades of millions marching in harmony. It is subdued. But for me, Pride is there nonetheless. Pride in knowing that who I am is part of our human story. Pride that I meet each day, and give of who I am to the work at hand. Pride knowing that with each step forward, we are one step closer to the promise of meeting the sunrise.
- DVS Deputy Commissioner Jeff Roth
Jeff Roth is currently stationed in Afghanistan, serving with the New York Army National Guard's 42nd Infantry Division.
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VA Resources for LGBT Veterans
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LGBT Veteran Care Coordinator
Every VA medical center has an LGBT Veteran Care Coordinator who can support LGBT veterans to address their health care needs. Learn more about the LGBT Veteran Care Coordinator at the VA NY Harbor Healthcare System here.
LGBTQ Support Groups
The Brooklyn and Manhattan VA campuses offer support groups for LGBT veterans. The support groups provide a safe and supportive space for LGBTQ veterans to share current and past struggles. Learn more here.
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Donating Masks to Veteran Organizations
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COVID-19 Cases Drop as Testing Increases
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The numbers say it all: As more New Yorkers get tested for COVID19, the number of positive cases in NYC drops.
Meanwhile, the US reached its highest daily total of new COVID19 cases on Wednesday. Let's make sure NYC is not part of this trend. Wear a mask and visit http://nyc.gov/covidtest to learn how to get a free test.
If you test positive for COVID-19 or have been exposed to someone who has, NYC's Test & Trace Corps will give you a call to connect to health services. Please answer the phone if you get a call from:
All calls are confidential and private.
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Economic Impact Payment Deadline
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The deadline to claim your Economic Impact Payments (EIP) is October 15th, 2020.
To receive your EIP payment you can file a 2019 tax return. If you are not required to file a tax return because your income is under $12,200 (single filers) or under $24,400 (joint filers) you can register for your payment as a “non-filer” on the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) website.
Professional financial counselors from NYC Financial Empowerment Centers are available by phone to answer your questions and make sure you get your stimulus payment. Visit nyc.gov/TalkMoney to book an appointment.
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Veteran Entrepreneurs
& Business Owners
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Summit for Veteran Entrepreneurs
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Attention veteran entrepreneurs: The annual NYU Veterans Future Lab Summit is back. Join pioneering veteran and military spouse entrepreneurs, top-tier investors, and industry leaders for a discussion on post-pandemic strategies and high-growth investment opportunities.
Speakers include DVS Commissioner James Hendon, filmmaker and best-selling author Sebastian Junger, Taylor McLemore (Techstars & Patriot Boot Camp), and Charlynda Scales (Mutt’s Sauce).
RSVP here.
WHEN: June 29-30 | 10 am - 2 pm
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Reopening Support from SBS
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The NYC Department of Small Business Services (SBS) is offering an array of support and resources to ensure businesses reopen safely:
Marketplace
Visit SBS's PPE + Reopening marketplace here to find face coverings, PPE, cleaning supplies, portable furniture, and more.
Hotline
If you have questions about reopening your business call SBS's hotline at 888-SBS4NYC or visit http://nyc.gov/business.
Webinars & Workshops
NYC SBS is hosting online workshops to help business owners navigate reopening. See a full list of upcoming virtual workshops and webinars here.
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COVID-19 Veteran Resources
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The Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) program provides rental assistance to eligible veterans. To receive services you must currently have a household income that does not exceed 50% of the area median income. For more information about the SSVF program email SSVF@va.gov or call 1-877-737–0111.
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Preparers from NYC Free Tax Prep can help you file taxes if you earn $64,000 or less (families) or $45,000 or less (single filer). Learn more about NYC Free Tax Prep here.
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Veterans facing unemployment due to COVID-19 or struggling to transition to civilian life can visit Novoresume. The website provides tips on writing a great resume and cover letter and helps veterans prepare for job interviews.
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VetVo Virtual Share Event
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Veteran Voices Newsletter is hosting a virtual networking event for veterans to share viewpoints on community service.
Register here
WHEN: June 27 | 5 pm – 7 pm
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Collecting & Sharing LGBTQ Stories
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Join the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum and SAGEVets for a virtual conversation about the experiences and challenges of LGBTQ service members.
Register here
WHEN: Monday, June 29 | 12 pm -1 pm
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RallyPoint will host a live Q&A with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the American Legion Auxiliary, and the National Association of State Directors of Veterans Affairs to focus on women veterans.
Submit your questions for the VA and subject matter experts now by visiting the RallyPoint website.
Register here.
WHEN: Tuesday, June 30th | 3 pm
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If you or a veteran you know is struggling with the recent surge of fireworks in the City, call the Veterans Crisis Line at 800-273-8255 (press 1), text 838255, or access CRISIS CHAT here.
You can find more mental health resources, including 1-on-1 support, here.
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