Veteran Appreciation Pasta Dinner #1

Who: NYS Senator Sue Serino and Mental Health America of Dutchess County Vet2Vet Program

What: Free Drive-Thru Appreciation Pasta Dinners for Local Veterans

When and Where:

Sunday, October 17, 2021 at the American Legion Post 178, 155 US-44, Millerton, NY 12546 ; Drive thru times are between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. (RSVP deadline October 11, 2021);

Sunday, October 24, 2021 at the VFW Post 170, 1 Violet Avenue, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 ; Drive thru times are between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. (RSVP deadline October 18, 2021).

Senator Sue Serino and Mental Health America of Dutchess County Vet2Vet Program will once again be partnering to host two free Veteran ‘Drive-Thru’ Appreciation Pasta Dinners on October 17th at the American Legion Post 178 in Millerton and on October 24th at the VFW Post 170 in Poughkeepsie.

“This annual tradition is even more important as this year has been especially challenging for many veterans in our community,” said Senator Sue Serino. “We want to make sure that they know they always have an incredibly grateful community behind them, and these dinners are one small way we can not only show our appreciation, but connect local vets with one another and with area resources that are available specifically for them. It is an honor to be able to host these dinners with Vet2Vet, and I look forward to once again serving our local veterans and their guests.”

Anthony Kavouras, Program Manager of MHA Dutchess Vet2Vet said, “In these very trying times for Veterans it is so nice to be involved with something that helps us bring local Veterans out for a nice meal to show our appreciation.  Mental Health America of Dutchess County’s Veterans Programs would like to give our sincerest thanks to Senator Sue Serino and her team for partnering with us again this year to host two more pasta dinners for the local Veterans.  Senator Serino has been a tireless Veteran advocate, and we appreciate her ongoing support to the Veterans of Dutchess County.  Our programs rely on support from local leaders, and our Veterans depend on us to provide vital services.  Sue’s efforts for the local Veteran community are highlighted annually by these dinners, but they are just a small part of what she does for the Veterans of Dutchess County.”

As always, these dinners are free to Dutchess County Veterans and one guest.

RSVPs are required for these events, and those interested can do so by calling Senator Serino’s Hyde Park Office at 845-229-0106. Individuals are asked to RSVP by October 11th for the October 17th dinner and by October 18th for the October 24th dinner. A designated time to arrive will be given upon RSVP to ensure a safe flow of traffic during the drive-thru.

The initiative will once again work to connect area veterans with critical services offered by the PFC Joseph P. Dwyer Vet2Vet Program, which uses a unique peer-to-peer model to offer non-clinical support and assistance for those who may be struggling with PTSD, TBI or other mental health challenges. Individuals interested in learning more can contact Anthony Kavouras, Program Manager, at 845-473-2500 ext. 1364. This program is open to any Dutchess County Veteran and a referral is not required. For more information, click here.

For more information regarding the drive-thru dinners, please call Senator Serino’s Hyde Park Office at 845-229-0106 or email serino@nysenate.gov.

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