Press Release
During a recent public hearing, State Senator Mike Barrett (D-Lexington) testified on behalf of his bill that would guarantee state funding for a Bedford housing complex that caters to homeless veterans.
Barrett is the chief sponsor of a bill (S.2009) that would ensure 100% reimbursement to Bedford for the financial assistance it provides veterans who move into Bedford Green, situated on the grounds of the VA hospital. The complex provides apartments to 69 homeless veterans from all over Massachusetts.
In his address to the Joint Committee on Veterans and Federal Affairs, Barrett highlighted the importance of helping homeless veterans get back on their feet. He noted that the state Department for Veteran Services (DVS) has previously reimbursed Bedford at 100% for individuals living in Bedford Green. Barrett called for this funding to continue, to ensure the Town does not face additional financial strain.
“Bedford has done a wonderful job supporting all efforts to eliminate veteran homelessness,” said Barrett. “This bill acknowledges that the town should get support by ensuring that DVS reimburses the community at 100%.”
The Joint Committee on Veterans and Federal Affairs will consider the bill and decide whether to report it out of the Committee favorably.
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