Reed Saxon / The Associated Press

Two veteran groups that service RI get large grants

Posted: 7/18/2012 10:51:05 AM

Two veteran support groups that service homeless and struggling veterans in Rhode Island have been awarded large grants to help them continue their work.

The Rhode Island Congressional delegation announced on Tuesday that Operation Stand Down Rhode Island will receive a $500,000 grant to help service 440 veterans in Rhode Island. Veterans Inc. will receive $1 million to serve veterans in New England. The grants have been awarded from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Supportive Services for Veteran Families.

“This federal funding is a smart investment in reducing homelessness in Rhode Island. Our veterans have made great sacrifices to serve our country, and we must honor their commitment. When they return from the battlefield, they shouldn’t have to battle on their own to get help and affordable housing,” said U.S. Senator Jack Reed, who worked on the Appropriations Committee to boost SSVF funding and introduced the Zero Tolerance for Veterans Homelessness Act.

OSDRI is a private non-profit organization that provides services including rent and utility payment assistance and housing. The money will help the organization with community outreach and case management. Currently OSDRI has five housing projects in Rhode Island and is working on building a new property in Westerly.

“This money comes at a critical time for our local veterans especially those returning from recent deployments.” He added “these veterans have returned with the scars of war both physical and mental and face the added burden of high unemployment and a stagnant local economy,” said Executive Director of Operation Stand Down Erik B. Wallin.

Veterans Inc. is the largest provider of veterans services in New England headquartered in Massachusetts with offices in Pawtucket. The group address the “total veteran,” providing job training, employment assistance, health care, and supportive services.

 “Many Rhode Island veterans are struggling to make ends meet during these challenging economic times. It is essential that we honor our veterans' service, and ensure that they have the help they need to stay afloat,” said U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse. “Operation Stand Down Rhode Island and Veterans Inc. provide crucial services to reduce instances of homelessness among Rhode Island veterans, and help struggling veterans get back on their feet. I applaud the VA for providing grants to help continue their valuable work.”