Stabenow, Peters Applaud $446,875 Federal Investment for Grand Rapids Home for Veterans

U.S. Senators Debbie Stabenow and Gary Peters today applauded a $446,875 federal investment in the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans. The grant, which comes from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), will go towards installing an anti-wander and security system.

"America's heroes selflessly put their lives on the line to protect our country," Senator Stabenow said. "Today's announcement is great news for our veterans in Grand Rapids. Not only will this new security system help make sure they stay safe, it will give their families peace of mind."

"Our brave men and women in uniform have defended our country and freedom, and they deserve the best care possible," said Senator Peters, a former Lt. Commander in the U.S. Navy Reserve. "We must keep the promises that we have made to our veterans, and I applaud this critical investment that will help keep Michigan veterans safe."

The Grand Rapids Home for Veterans stretches across 90 acres and provides critical long-term care to veterans, from rehabilitation therapy to spiritual, social, recreational and educational activities. The facility hosts 450 nursing care beds and more than 100 domiciliary beds. The nursing care beds include 115 special needs beds, with two 35-bed nursing units for the care of Alzheimer's and dementia patients and one 45-bed nursing unit for dual diagnoses patients.

For years, Senator Stabenow has led the fight to make sure they have access to the care and resources they need. She has led efforts to bring VA clinics to Michigan so veterans don't have to drive hundreds of miles to receive medical treatment. In recent years, new clinics have opened in Alpena, Bad Axe, Cadillac, Clare, Grayling, and Mackinaw City.

Senator Peters has been a strong voice for Michigan service members and veterans in Congress. Earlier this year, Peters cosponsored the Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention for American Veterans Act, bipartisan legislation that was signed into law by the President earlier this year to provide additional resources to improve mental health care and suicide prevention programs for veterans.