|
|||
A Wonderful Veterans Appreciation Luncheon
Sunday November 16th was one of my favorite events as I hosted my annual Veterans Informational and Appreciation Luncheon at Trout Lake! It was wonderful to spend the day with so many veterans from across our district to share stories, say thank you, and recognize the sacrifices they and their families have made on behalf of our country. Special thanks to the wonderful staff at Trout Lake and our guest speaker Justin Wunderler (Veterans Service Coordinator at New Vitae Wellness and Recovery. My office will be sending out physical copies to all veterans and their guests who attended this event, so be on the lookout in the mail! To see more photos from this on Facebook, click here. State Budget Update
This year’s budget reflects the realities of divided government, with both sides making compromises to fund essential services while advancing meaningful policy changes. The FY 2025-26 General Appropriations Act was signed into law on Nov. 12th. This year’s state budget increases funding for the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs’ general government operations by 6.6% and increases federal funding for state veterans’ homes by 52.9%. As always, I remain committed to protecting taxpayers, promoting smart government, and supporting the long-term wellbeing of our Commonwealth. To read my full remarks and statements on this year’s budget, you can read my release here. Veterans’ Trust Fund Grant Program Now Accepting Applications
The Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs is now accepting applications for the 2026-27 Veterans’ Trust Fund (VTF) grant cycle. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, veterans’ organizations and county directors of Veterans Affairs or the Pennsylvania Association of County Directors of Veterans Affairs. The VTF supports new or expanded programs that improve services to veterans at the county, regional or state level. For nonprofit and veterans’ organizations, funding priorities include mental and behavioral health, transportation and employment. These applicants may request up to $40,000. County directors and their association may apply for up to $15,000 per county. Their funding priorities must include outreach initiatives, enhance veteran service officer and advocate capabilities and addressing emerging needs such as transportation, food insecurity, suicide prevention and legal assistance. Applications must be submitted by 2 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 19th. Pennsylvania Treasury Returns Medals to Veterans
Pennsylvania Treasurer Stacy Garrity announced the return of 57 miliary decorations to veterans and their families this year, including Purple Hearts, Civil War relics and a Gold Star Widows and Pilgrimage Medal. The Pennsylvania Treasury still holds nearly 500 unclaimed military items, including medals, dog tags and service pins from all branches of the armed forces. To search for unclaimed property, go to unclaimedproperty.patreasury.gov/en/Medals. Holiday Discounts for Veterans
Veterans can take advantage of exclusive discounts and cashback offers from top gifting brands like Yeti, Ray-Ban, Columbia, Stanley, Walt Disney World and more through ID.me to help with holiday shopping. To sign up, visit va.gov, create an account and verify your identity. Verification is often instant but may take up to three days. Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones from Scams
Our office has recently been made aware of several alarming scam attempts in our region, including one involving a local resident who was nearly tricked into handing over $16,000 in cash. The scammer claimed to be a bail bondsman and falsely told the victim that her daughter had been arrested following a traffic accident. The call included personal details, a fabricated story, and even someone impersonating the daughter in distress. The impersonator pleaded for help and insisted she “not tell anyone.” Fortunately, this individual trusted her instincts and was able to verify that her daughter was safe before handing over any money. But not everyone is as lucky, and these scams are becoming more convincing with the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and easily accessible personal information online. Tips to Protect Yourself:
If You Believe You’ve Been Targeted:
Scammers are becoming more sophisticated, but we can stay one step ahead by staying informed and spreading awareness. Please share this message with your family, friends, and neighbors. Please especially share with older adults who are frequently targeted. Celebrating Northeast Infrastructure
A few weeks ago, I was thrilled to help celebrate Northeast Infrastructure (NEI) of Honesdale on their awarded contract of $200 million from the US Department of Veterans Affairs! Pictured with me in celebrating this achievement is Congressman Rob Bresnahan, State Senator Lisa Baker, and State Representatives Jonathan Fritz and Jeff Olsommer. A perfect example of what a veteran-owned business should be in our community. Congratulations again on this great achievement! |
|||
|
|||
Want to change how you receive these emails? 2025 © Senate of Pennsylvania | https://senatorbrown40.com | Privacy Policy |
