Erie County supports an effort to provide veteran posts with access to federal grants to be used for repairs to halls and posts. The Legislature unanimously approved a resolution at the Legislature’s May 14, 2015 session that lends its support to Congressman Chris Collins’ Renovate and Enhance Veterans’ Meeting Halls and Posts (REVAMP) Act.

The REVAMP Act would allow veteran posts to apply for federal funding through the Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) program. Eligible applicants can apply for a grant for a variety of purposes; however veterans’ posts are currently excluded.

“The Community Development Block Grants are already available to eligible towns and cities. The REVAMP Act will simply allow veterans’ posts to apply for funding to repair halls and posts. The members of our local veteran posts are true heroes who are committed to supporting each other and building strong camaraderie. This is the least we can do to ensure they have a functional place in which to join together after all they did for us,” said Chairman John Mills.

“We continue to see veterans’ posts struggle financially and providing access to existing federal grants is one way we can help alleviate some issues they face in maintaining their halls. Our local veterans are true heroes who should be shown gratitude and appreciation for their sacrifices. I hope Washington will support the REVAMP Act as soon as possible,” said Majority Leader Joseph Lorigo.

For additional information, please contact the Legislature at 858-7500 or visit www.erie.gov/legislature.