Poughkeepsie, NY … The Dutchess County Division of Veterans Services is now accepting applications for its Veterans Microgrant Program, a competitive grant program that offers one-time grants to local nonprofit organizations or municipalities to enhance activities and programming that address veterans’ needs and recognize the service of local veterans. Grant applications are now available online via Dutchess County’s online grant portal and will be accepted on a rolling basis while funds are available.
Grant awards of up to $15,000 per organization or municipality can be used for purchases or needs, including equipment, resources or other one-time expenses to help enhance program offerings, as well as make the program more accessible for veterans. Dutchess County’s 2024 Budget includes $100,000 for the Veterans Microgrant Program.
Veterans Services Director Adam Roche said, “I am grateful County Executive Sue Serino and the Dutchess County Legislature have continued the microgrant program, which not only helps our veterans but also all the organizations throughout Dutchess County that work daily to serve our vets. The grant clearly acknowledges the value of our veterans and ensures they are being cared for in a manner worthy of their service to our country.”
Nonprofit organizations or municipalities that currently offers specific programs to and for the benefit of veterans of the United States Armed Forces in Dutchess County are encouraged to apply. Priority will be given to entities that do not already contract with Dutchess County to provide services to veterans. Organizations or municipalities which received funds from Dutchess County through its 2022 or 2023 Veterans Microgrant programs are not eligible to apply for this latest opportunity.
Examples of possible funding awards include:
An example of projects funded through the County’s previous Veterans Microgrant programs: The Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 666 in Beacon received a $14,000 microgrant in 2022 to purchase new appliances for its kitchen, which is used to prepare meals for veterans during meetings for various veteran organizations within the group’s Veterans Memorial Building; to upgrade lighting and provide counter-top space for food preparation and cabinet space for storage; to replace the floor to enable better cleaning; to purchase a stainless steel sink to accommodate large pots; and replace water-damaged ceiling tiles.
Only one application per organization will be accepted. Funding should be utilized within one year of award. The complete list of Veterans Microgrant instructions and guidance is available online.
For more information on veterans services throughout Dutchess County visit: dutchessny.gov/veterans.
