FITCHBURG — Local veterans have gained a new home away from home.
Wednesday afternoon veterans, local dignitaries, city and state representatives all gathered inside the new Veterans Center at 14 Wallace Avenue. The new center is the result of years of hard work and effort in finding the city’s veterans a place to gather. The event was provided by Clear Path for New England.
“This has been somewhat of a journey,” said Mayor Stephen DiNatale, “and over a number of years.”
DiNatale offered thanks to the city’s Veterans Commissioner, Michele Marino. Marino put in many hours and months to make this project a reality for veterans.
“We are proud that we are providing the very best services we can to our veterans and that is thanks to Michele Marino,” said DiNatale.
This center has space for veterans groups to meet, rooms for card games and movies, a small library of books, donated clothing for those in need and even a donation pantry of food. Other services are provided by those in the Veterans department, helping veterans navigate their benefits and needs.
Many veterans praised the center, especially after the closing of American Legion Post 429 on Daniels Street.
William Saladini, President of the Veterans Council, offered thanks to donors who made sure the project became a reality. AIS Office Furniture of Leominster provided all furniture and cubicles to fill the center. Others include; Erin Carr, AIS Senior Product Line Manager, Dan Roberts, AIS Field Services Manager and US Air Force Veteran, Michael Maclean, AIS Design Director, Justin Boucher of Eastern Carrier in Leominster who provided transportation and product delivery and James Hicks of ROI Industries of Fitchburg who provided installation support.
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