Additional resources available to veterans in Yates

Dec 22, 2022 at 01:47 am by Observer-Review


Additional resources available to veterans in Yates ADVERTISEMENT

Additional resources available to veterans in Yates

YATES COUNTY--Veterans One-Stop Center of Western New York has set up shop in Yates County. Thanks to expanded state resources for programs that support veterans, a dedicated staff person was hired in August 2022. Amanda Hayes, a peer support specialist, immediately began organizing events for veterans and their families. She is also available to meet one-on-one with veterans for coffee, lunch, or just a quick phone call.
"Our goal is to welcome veterans into the community," said PFS Joseph P. Dwyer Peer Support Manager Dan Arnold. "We want to help them find safe environments and help them integrate into the community. We provide opportunities for veterans to get out and about."
One of the favorites of these opportunities, according to Hayes, is Coffee and Cards. Since September, approximately 25 veterans--a combination of first-time attendees and returning attendees--have participated in the card-playing event as well as movie nights and bowling. During a recent event, a local artist worked with veterans to paint pictures. This month, veterans watched the movie called Spirited and attended a star-gazing event.
"Our program is about helping veterans make the transition home, to help them feel empowered, and to build connections," said Hayes. "We want veterans to know they are not alone. Veterans don't have to stay at home and feel cooped up. We want to create events where veterans will feel comfortable with no pressure."
Arnold and Hayes are already looking for options to expand the program in Yates County. Arnold recently purchased three beehives that will be set up on a local farm, and veterans will be trained to care for the bees. Hayes is planning events monthly and noted that all events are free for veterans. Currently, bowling is scheduled for Jan. 4, 2023, and Coffee and Cards is scheduled for Jan. 7, 2023. Both events will be held in Penn Yan. For more information, visit www.yatescovets.com.

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