Republicans in the New York state Senate and advocates for veterans on Wednesday called for the creation of a $10 million relief fund to aid veterans service organizations in New York. 

The money is meant to aid veterans and the organizations supporting them that may have struggled financially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Eligible groups like the VFW and American Legion would be able to apply for the grants to make rent, mortgage or debt payments or pay for business expenses like maintenance and administration costs as well as taxes. 

“Our veterans services organizations provide such important support and services to our veterans and our communities as a whole," said Republican state Sen. Daphne Jordan. "Many of these organizations have struggled financially throughout the pandemic, particularly since many of their traditional fundraising activities were shut down. This bill would help them get back on their feet so they can continue to provide critical support and fellowship for our community heroes."

As part of the proposal, organizations that provide services to veterans would be eligible for grants of up to $50,000. 

“Saratoga County is rightly seen as a leader in delivering vital support services such as the Joseph P. Dwyer Peer-to-Peer Veteran’s Counseling Program, and countless other proven programs and policies that help veterans, active-duty personnel, and military families," said Saratoga County Veterans' Service Agency Director Frank McClement. "I am proud to support the new, bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senator Jordan that places the state’s focus where it properly belongs — assisting the Veterans Service Organizations that continue doing a fantastic job serving New York’s military veterans and keeping these fraternal bonds strong."