Rumshock Veterans Foundation wins $1 million for veteran housing

Congressman Pat Ryan (D-18) this week announced that $1 million in federal funding will go toward the Rumshock Veterans Foundation to build 10 homes for veterans. The funding was announced during a celebratory luncheon at VFW Post 161 in Port Jervis on Sunday, March 24.

The Rumshock Veterans Village project will build 10 one-bedroom, one-bathroom houses for homeless veterans. Veterans will live in the home at a reduced cost.

“This is our opportunity in Port Jervis to give back to the homeless veterans for their service when our nation called on them. No veteran should be without a place to call home,” said Port Jervis City Councilman Stan Siegel. “To quote Walt Disney, ‘All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them.’”

“As we move forward with this project, let us continue to work together, hand in hand, to honor the sacrifices of our veterans and ensure that they receive the care and support they deserve. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who have served our country bravely and selflessly,” said Bill Whetsel, president and founder of the Rumshock Veterans Foundation. “Thank you, Congressman Ryan, Stanley Siegel and the incredible community of Port Jervis, for your unwavering support, your dedication, and your belief in the power of community to create positive change.

“No veteran should be without a home in the country they put their lives on the line to defend. I pushed relentlessly to get this project included in this year’s budget, and I couldn’t be more proud to have secured these funds for the Rumshock Veterans Village to address veteran homelessness in Orange County,” said Ryan. “This would not have been possible without the inspiring work of Bill Whetsel, Councilman Siegel’s vision, or the support of the Port Jervis community. The Rumshock Veterans Village is a shining example of what is possible when we come together to support our nation’s heroes.”

”I’m so grateful for the work that Congressman Ryan did in partnership with the Rumshock Veterans Foundation to secure the funding for this village. Any step we as representatives can take to ensure our veterans find safe, comfortable and affordable housing when they return home is a worthwhile effort, and I’m thrilled that Port Jervis’ veterans will now have access to further facilities that support them and their specific needs,” said Assemblyman Karl Brabenec (R-98). “Thank you once again to Congressman Ryan, the Rumshock Veterans Foundation, and the City of Port Jervis for making this relief facility a reality.”