NORWICH – Members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) in Norwich have come together with the Disabled American Veterans organization (DAV) in an effort to provide Chenango and Madison County veterans transportation to the VA medical center in Syracuse.
With gas prices continually rising and the Nation’s economy continuing to worsen, both organizations decided years ago to help veterans get to regional VA facilities easier.
“We cover about 18 counties,” said Frank Caputo, the DAV hospital coordinator for Syracuse VA medical center operating area said. “This service was originally created for veterans who where severely disabled or homeless. It took off from there, it now serves all vets, no matter their aliment, length of time served or age. We take all of them.”
For approximately the past two years, Caputo explained plans have been in motion to create such a service at no cost for the veterans in Chenango and southern Madison county. “Donations are always welcome to both the VFW and the DAV, but nothing is required,” said Caputo.
The vehicle itself, was purchased through fundraising efforts made by the Norwich VFW and money from the DAV.
“VFW members raised 50 percent and the DAV covered the other 50 percent,” said Caputo, also explaining vehicle manufacturers provided a more affordable price for the vehicle because of the service it would be used for. Once purchased, the vehicle maintenance is paid for by the VA department as well as the cost of fuel.
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