NYC Department of Veterans' Services

NYC Department of Veterans' Services The NYC Department of Veterans' Services (DVS) fosters purpose-driven lives for NYC veterans.
(2)

This week, DVS Associate Commissioner for External Affairs Nicole Orlando and Alfonso Lopez, Senior Advisor to Deputy Ma...
08/21/2026

This week, DVS Associate Commissioner for External Affairs Nicole Orlando and Alfonso Lopez, Senior Advisor to Deputy Mayor Helen Arteaga, visited the Blue Star Families Essentials Market in recognition of Nonprofit Week.

During the visit, they presented a certificate of appreciation to the dedicated volunteers who keep the pantry running smoothly for military-connected families. From connecting families with nutritious food and essential programs to building supportive communities, Blue Star Families makes a meaningful difference in the lives of New York City’s military and veteran families every day.

Supporting organizations like Blue Star Families is essential to ensuring that military and veteran families have continued access to the resources, services, and supportive communities they need to thrive.

Veterans

We are excited to announce that registration is officially OPEN for NYC’s first-ever City-sponsored Remembrance Ruck! In...
08/20/2026

We are excited to announce that registration is officially OPEN for NYC’s first-ever City-sponsored Remembrance Ruck!

In partnership with and , the City-sponsored ruck celebrating and honoring New York City’s veteran and military community will take place September 13 and kick off at 9:00 a.m. The Ruck will begin at Cadman Plaza in Brooklyn, cross the Brooklyn Bridge and conclude at Foley Square in Manhattan.

The event is open to all, including veterans, active-duty service members, reservists, caregivers, survivors, Gold Star Families, military families, members of the broader military community and civilians. Anyone who wishes to participate and show their support can register at on.nyc.gov/ruck.

Our office has reopened and is operating as usual. Thank you for your patience and understanding during the temporary cl...
08/19/2026

Our office has reopened and is operating as usual. Thank you for your patience and understanding during the temporary closure.

Our office is temporarily closed for office maintenance . We apologize for the inconvenience. Updates will be shared as ...
08/17/2026

Our office is temporarily closed for office maintenance . We apologize for the inconvenience.
Updates will be shared as they become available.

On August 16, 1940, a group of 48 brave volunteers made a historic first jump - an experiment leap that established Amer...
08/16/2026

On August 16, 1940, a group of 48 brave volunteers made a historic first jump - an experiment leap that established America's airborne capabilities. Just four years later, thousands of paratroopers dropped behind enemy line in pitch darkness during the D-Day invasion at Normandy to turn the tide of the war.

Since then, airborne operations have played a key role in our nation's defense, evolving into a highly advanced and vital military force.

Today, DVS honors the courage, sacrifice, and dedication of all airborne veterans who served our nation.

08/14/2026

🏛️ The Take Care of America’s Veterans Act remains stalled in Congress.
The legislation — H.R. 9237 and S. 4744 — combines more than 60 veterans measures, including a version of the Major Richard Star Act.
One of the biggest sticking points is Section 108, which would change how VA evaluates sleep apnea and tinnitus for future disability claims. Disability compensation already in effect before enactment would be protected.
Supporters of the broader package argue that projected savings from the rating changes can help fund expanded benefits elsewhere in the bill. Opponents, including several veterans service organizations, argue that new benefits should not be paid for by reducing compensation.
As lawmakers continue looking for a path forward, read up on the bill, contact your representatives and make your voice heard.

🍎 SNAP WORK REQUIREMENTS
As of March 1, veteran status alone no longer provides an exemption from federal SNAP work requirements.
Veterans who fall under the ABAWD rules may need to complete and report 80 hours each month through work, approved education or training, job-search activities or volunteer service. 
Several exemptions remain, including for people receiving VA disability, SSI or SSDI; people whose health prevents them from working; pregnant recipients; and people living with a child under 14.
If you receive SNAP, check your ACCESS HRA account for notices and make sure your contact information is current. 
Visit nyc.gov/accesshra or call 718-SNAP-NOW (718-762-7669) for help.

📌 SAVE THE DATE
New York City’s first-ever city-sponsored Brooklyn Bridge Remembrance Ruck is September 13, beginning at Cadman Plaza and ending with a veteran resource fair at Foley Square. 
More details to come.

08/14/2026

On National Navajo Code Talkers Day, we recognize the Native Americans whose language protected service members during World War II. The U.S. Marine Corps recruited 29 Navajo Code Talkers from the Southwest. By using a complex language that was entirely oral before the war, these Marines created an unbreakable military code that secured critical operations across the Pacific. Their achievement stands as a testament to the Navajo Nation's extraordinary legacy of service and sacrifice.

Today, DVS honors every Code Talker and salutes the last survivors, Peter MacDonald and Thomas H. Begay, as we continue to serve those who served.

Agent Orange Awareness Day serves as a lasting reminder of the ongoing battle and profound sacrifice made by Vietnam vet...
08/10/2026

Agent Orange Awareness Day serves as a lasting reminder of the ongoing battle and profound sacrifice made by Vietnam veterans and families affected by toxic exposure from Agent Orange.

DVS remains committed to raising awareness and continuing to connect veterans and their families with benefits, resources, and support.

08/07/2026

🚨 Beginning March 1, veteran status alone no longer provides an exemption from federal SNAP work requirements.

Veterans who fall under the ABAWD rules may need to complete and report 80 hours each month through work, approved education or training, job-search activities or volunteer service.

Several exemptions remain, including for people receiving VA disability, SSI or SSDI; people whose health prevents them from working; pregnant recipients; and people living with a child under 14.

If you receive SNAP, check your ACCESS HRA account for notices and make sure your contact information is current. HRA says recipients who have not received a Work Activity Letter do not need to report work activities.

Visit nyc.gov/SnapWorkRules or call 718-SNAP-NOW (718-762-7669) for help.

The Purple Heart is the oldest U.S. military decoration still awarded today - a lasting symbol of courage and resilience...
08/07/2026

The Purple Heart is the oldest U.S. military decoration still awarded today - a lasting symbol of courage and resilience, honoring service members wounded or killed in combat.

On Purple Heart Day, we recognize Purple Heart recipients and all who have sacrificed in service, and remain committed to supporting NYC veterans, service members, and military families.

Address

New York, NY

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 5pm

Telephone

+12124165250

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when NYC Department of Veterans' Services posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Share