A veteran resource fair at the LaSalle American Legion Post #1142, 8643 Buffalo Ave., Niagara Falls, from 3 to 6 p.m. on Wednesday.
The fair will unite veteran service organizations, government agencies, and community partners to provide a one-stop shop for local veterans. In conjunction with the fair, ConnectLife will host a blood drive from 2 to 6 p.m. Donors can sign up in advance at www.connectlife.org.
“This event is about connecting our veterans with the resources they deserve, while also inviting the community to give back — whether that’s through volunteering, joining the Legion, or donating blood,” Niagara County Legislator Christopher McKimmie, who is sponsoring the event, said. “We owe it to our veterans to make these opportunities as accessible as possible.”
Niagara County Clerk Joe Jastrzemski and representatives from the Veterans Service Agency (VSA) will be on-site to enroll veterans in the Thank-A-Vet Discount Card Program, which provides exclusive discounts at participating county businesses. Veterans must present proof of honorable discharge to receive their photo ID card. VSA staff will also answer questions about veteran benefits, and schedule follow-up appointments for VA claims assistance or filing DD-214’s with the clerk’s office.
“We appreciate Legislator McKimmie hosting this event as we are always looking for opportunities for our VSA team to engage veterans out in the community,” Jastrzemski said. “We are here to help veterans access the benefits they earned serving our country.”
Also attending will be Stan Zimmerman, vice chairman of the Niagara Falls Veterans Monument, who will distribute and collect applications to have veterans’ names added to the city’s monument.
Additional resources include representatives from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs-Buffalo, the New York State Department of Veteran Services, WNY Heroes, Veterans One Stop, state Sen. Rob Ortt’s office, and other veteran-focused organizations.
The Sons of the American Legion and American Legion Auxiliary will be selling hot dogs, hamburgers, and salads, with proceeds supporting the Post.