Capitol News

State Representative Jason Woolford (R-Howell) has announced that $1 million in state funding has been approved to improve infrastructure at the Devereaux American Legion Post 141. The appropriation was included in the latest state budget, following efforts led by Woolford to expand the post’s capacity and services for veterans and their families.

“For many veterans and their families, Post 141 is more than a building. It’s a lifeline,” said Woolford. “This funding is a direct investment in infrastructure that supports those who served our country and now need our help.”

The funds will be used to relocate and expand the post’s kitchen, allowing it to prepare and serve more meals daily. Currently, Devereaux Post 141 provides free community meals on holidays such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter. The post also offers a weekly $5 community dinner, which is free for those unable to pay. The kitchen expansion aims to support meal service throughout the year for anyone in need.

The post often reaches full capacity and has occasionally had to turn away veterans and families due to space constraints. The new funding is intended to help the post accommodate everyone seeking support.

“Post 141 is more than a veterans’ hall; it’s a community hub,” said Woolford. In addition to serving veterans, we welcome non-veterans, community theatre groups, quilting clubs, the firefighter’s union, Boy Scouts, and even active-duty military for training and family events. This grant ensures that everyone, regardless of military background, can continue to benefit from the services, resources, and sense of community that Post 141 provides.”

“We want to create a safe and welcoming place for veterans and families who are too often overlooked. This is a vital issue for many in our community, and with this funding we can serve more people, more often, and more effectively. I’m proud to have delivered for the people who gave so much for our country.”