Market 32 Makes Donation to Disabled American Veterans

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PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Market 32/Price Chopper presented a check for $61,644 to Disabled American Veterans (DAV), following aa November fundraising campaign. 
 
The donation includes $51,644 contributed by customers who rounded up their change at checkout across all 130 stores, along with a $10,000 match from Market 32/Price Chopper.
 
"Disabled American Veterans believes that every veteran is important and deserving of support, regardless of age or stage of life." said Pam Cerrone, Market 32/Price Chopper director of community relations. "With 1,200 chapters and nearly 100 offices across the USA, DAV can help veterans in life-changing ways. Market 32/Price Chopper couldn't be prouder to join our customers in support of DAV efforts to benefit those who have served and sacrificed for our country."
 
The check presentation took place at Market 32 Clifton Shoppers World Plaza in Clifton Park, NY, where representatives from Market 32/Price Chopper and DAV gathered to celebrate the impact of the donation and highlight the role it will play in DAV's efforts to support veterans by providing cost-free, lifetime support.
 
"With this generous donation, DAV can continue its mission of helping veterans access essential benefits, medical care, and employment opportunities," said Shannon Sander, DAV Department of New York commander. "We are deeply grateful to Market 32/Price Chopper and their customers for making a real difference in the lives of those who have served."
 
According to a press release, DAV empowers veterans through a range of services, including benefits assistance, job placement, and transportation to medical appointments. Assisting over one million veterans annually, DAV processed more than 209,000 benefit claims and provided 345,000 free rides last year alone. Beyond direct services, DAV advocates for veterans on Capitol Hill, educates the public on veterans' needs, and fosters community support through local Chapters.
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ServiceNet Hopes to Open Pittsfield Warming Center in Nov.

By Brittany PolitoiBerkshires Staff

PITTSFIELD, Mass.— A warming center is again planned in the First United Methodist Church for the cold months. 

During last week's Homelessness Advisory Committee meeting, Erin Forbush, director of shelter and housing at ServiceNet, reported that they hope to begin operating the nighttime center in mid-November. 

It would operate from 10 p.m. to 8 a.m. in the church, which abuts The Pearl shelter. Forbush said the warming center would be the same program as in the past. 

"Again it's a warming center, so there's no cots or beds, but it is certainly a place to come in, and we'll have a hot coffee or cocoa ready for folks," she explained. 

"It will be a place to be inside and warm."

This year, ServiceNet hopes to secure full funding from the state so the warming center can open on Sundays at 5 p.m. In years past, they found that Sunday is the most challenging day for unhoused individuals because many community spaces aren't open. 

The First Housing Resource Center, managed by Hearthway, opened earlier this year as a low-barrier option for people to rest and access amenities. It is open seven days a week, and Forbush said if people could come to the warming center on Sundays at 5, there would be a fuller day of coverage. 

"It does still leave a little gap for Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, as spaces like the library close at five, but we know that Sundays were something that people were looking for," she said. 

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