|
NYC Department of Veterans' Services (DVS) Weekly Newsletter
|
|
DVS Commissioner Hendon on the
U.S. Navy's 245th Birthday
|
|
|
This week, we celebrated the 245th birthday of the United States Navy. From its birth in the Revolutionary War, through the instrumental roles that it played in the European and Pacific Theaters in World War II, the Navy has protected the freedoms that we cherish and continue to serve as a beacon of hope around the globe. On their birthday, we thank Navy Veterans and those currently serving for their dedication and sacrifice. We also acknowledge the unique bond that New York City has with the Navy. Every May, our city hosts Fleet Week, which showcases our country’s maritime capabilities and reminds the 8 million citizens of our vibrant city of the importance of a life of service. Over that week, the parade of Navy ships and Service Members become a fixture on our waterways and streets. They volunteer at schools, soup kitchens, and senior centers, leaving an indelible impact on our city. Robert F. Kennedy said, "The purpose of life is to contribute in some way to making things better." And for 245 years, the Navy has fulfilled that mission by creating a freer and safer world.
- DVS Commissioner James Hendon
|
|
Virtual Veteran Advisory Board Meeting:
Wednesday, Oct 21st
|
|
|
The Veterans Advisory Board (VAB) will hold a virtual meeting on Wednesday, October 21st, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
The virtual VAB meeting is designed to inform constituents about the City's efforts to support veterans and their families. All New Yorkers are invited to join.
Participants are encouraged to share their stories, advocate for what's important to them, and ask questions directly to the VAB and DVS leadership. Email your questions now to connect@veterans.nyc.gov.
The Veteran Advisory Board Meeting is FREE. No registration required.
WHEN: Wed, 10/21 | 6 - 8 pm
TO JOIN: Follow this link OR call (646) 992-2010
ACCESS CODE: 173 553 1973
|
|
Support for Veteran Organizations
|
|
Deadline to Receive Financial Support
is Wednesday, Oct 28th
|
|
|
Many Veteran Service Organizations (VSOs) have lost revenue due to the COVID-19 lockdowns. In response, NYC is providing microgrants and Home Depot gift cards to local VSO's hit hardest by the pandemic.
Microgrant Initiative
VSOs that have lost revenue due to an inability to rent their space can receive a one-time microgrant of up to $500. Apply and learn eligibility requirements here.
Home Depot Gift Cards
DVS is also providing $100 Home Depot gift cards to VSOs to help cover the cost of PPE, facility upkeep, or general operations. Apply and learn eligibility requirements here.
Deadline
The deadline to apply for a microgrant or a Home Depot gift card is Wednesday, October 28th (11:59 pm).
Please Note
VSOs deemed eligible for the Microgrant Initiative are ineligible to receive Home Depot gift cards. If you have questions, please email us at VSOSupport@veterans.nyc.gov or call 212 416-5250.
|
|
Partnering to Feed Veterans
|
|
|
This week, members of the DVS staff volunteered alongside Black Veterans for Social Justice to package food donated by Hello Fresh. This is part of an ongoing partnership between Hello Fresh, the New York State Division of Veterans' Services, NYC DVS, and local veteran organizations to provide free meals to New York veterans experiencing food insecurity during the COVID-19 pandemic. Read more about the partnership here.
|
|
UPDATE: New Census Deadline
|
|
New Census Deadline is Friday October 16th at 6:00 am!
|
|
|
This week, the Supreme Court ruled that the 2020 Census count can end on FRIDAY, October 16th, at 6 am!
We have less than 24 hours to ensure we get the proper funding and representation. NYC can not be forced to receive anything less than we deserve! Fill out the 2020 census here. This is your last chance.
|
|
|
Congress Extends Protections
for Student Veterans
|
|
|
Earlier this month, Congress extended protections for GI Bill recipients through the end of 2021.
Student veterans will continue to receive the monthly housing allowance for resident training even if their courses moved online due to COVID-19. In addition, student veterans participating in a work-study program will not lose benefits if their school closes.
If you have questions about your GI Bill benefits, please contact DVS at claims@veterans.nyc.gov.
|
|
Google's "Serving Veterans" Website
|
|
|
Google's new "Serving Veterans” website collects mental health resources for veterans and their families. In addition to video testimonials from prominent figures in the veteran community, the page features tools to address post-traumatic stress, substance abuse disorders, and other mental health issues. The website also makes it easy to find organizations that can give you the support you need.
|
|
Virtual Gala to Celebrate Military Caregivers
|
|
|
The Elizabeth Dole Foundation will host its third annual "Heroes and History Makers" virtual gala to celebrate the service and sacrifice of military caregivers.
The event will feature Senator Elizabeth Dole, Hidden Heroes Campaign Chair Tom Hanks, Hidden Heroes Ambassador Savannah Guthrie, Adam Driver, Darius Rucker, Hilary Swank, Jocko Sims, Nico Santos, Tim McGraw, Geena Davis, Joe Mantegna, Wilson Cruz.
This event is free for all to attend.
WHEN: Tuesday, October 20th | 8:00 pm
REGISTER: http://hhm2020.org
|
|
Servicemembers and the Election
|
|
|
The New York State Bar Association is hosting a webinar for servicemembers and deployed military personnel to discuss voting in the upcoming election. A panel of experts will review options for voting including absentee ballots and voting in person.
WHEN: Wednesday, October 21st | 9:00 am
REGISTER: https://nysba.org/events/servicemembers-and-the-election/
|
|
DVS Programs & Initiatives
|
|
|
As part of MissionVetCheck, volunteers are making check-in calls to NYC veterans and informing them about available services. You can be part of this mission. Join today here.
|
|
|
If you’re a veteran in need of food assistance during the COVID-19 crisis, DVS is here to help. Contact DVS at (212) 416-5250 or connect@veterans.nyc.gov to have GetFoodNYC meals delivered to your home.
|
|
Housing Support & Eviction Prevention
|
|
|
If you're a veteran worried about eviction, please contact DVS at connect@veterans.nyc.gov or 212-416-5250.
|
|
Helping Veterans File VA Claims
|
|
|
DVS is now processing VA benefits claims. We're prepared to help you get the benefits you've earned! To learn more, contact claims@veterans.nyc.gov.
|
|
|
Grow your veteran-owned business by becoming NYC certified! 75% of certified businesses have won contracts with City agencies. Learn if your business is eligible for NYC certification here. To learn more, contact business@veterans.nyc.gov.
|
|
SITREP NYC Podcast Season 2
|
|
DVS COVID-19 Resource Page
|
|
|
Employment Services:
- Christian T. Peralta
(646) 630-1932 | cperalta1@veterans.nyc.gov
Education Services and Unemployment Assistance:
- Amauri Espinal
(646) 799-2728 | aespinal@veterans.nyc.gov
Housing:
- Dana Rock, HSS Director
(646) 901-4948 | DanaRock@veterans.nyc.gov
- Horng Chou, HSS Deputy Director
(646) 532-1884 | Hchou@veterans.nyc.gov
Eviction Prevention:
- Angela Guyton-Cyril
(646) 740-8156 | AGuyton-Cyril@veterans.nyc.gov
Food Assistance:
Healthcare:
- Melissa Walters
(646) 889-4180 | Mewalters@veterans.nyc.gov
Military Families and Caregivers:
- Tanya Thomas
(646) 499-0098 | tthomas@veterans.nyc.gov
|
|
|
|
|
