(BINGHAMTON, NY) – Today, Broome County Executive Jason Garnar joined by Major General Raymond Shields, Adjutant General of the New York State Division of Military and Naval Affairs, Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo, City of Binghamton Mayor Kraham, local veterans, community leaders, and partner organizations, gathered at 11 Frederick Street on Binghamton’s northside to celebrate the grand opening and officially cut the ribbon on Broome County’s brand-new Veterans Resource Center, accompanied by 10 tiny homes for veterans.
This $12.2 million project represents nearly a decade of planning and partnership, beginning when County Executive Garnar first took office. The site fulfills a long-standing goal to create a comprehensive hub where veterans can access housing, services and community all in one place.
The development features ten ADA-accessible tiny homes – six one-bedroom and four two-bedroom units – fully furnished and equipped with on-site laundry. The homes will be managed by Soldier On, a nonprofit organization that provides permanent supportive housing and wraparound services for veterans. Residents will also have access to a community garden, created in partnership with VINES (Volunteers Improving Neighborhood Environments), giving veterans the opportunity to grow fresh produce and connect through shared outdoor space.
The new Veterans Resource Center will serve as a one-stop hub for local veterans, featuring office space for Broome County Veterans Services, Clear Path for Veterans, and the Southern Tier Veterans Support Group. The center includes a community room for educational programs, veteran events, and peer support gatherings. The Food Bank of the Southern Tier will also conduct regular mobile pantry visits to the site.
“This project has been years in the making, and it wouldn’t have been possible without strong support from our state and federal partners, along with the Broome County Legislature,” said Broome County Executive Jason Garnar. “This site represents a major investment in those who served our country, and I’m proud that we’re honoring Tim Grippen’s legacy with a project that will provide care, stability, and hope for veterans for years to come.”
“Our Veterans have given so much to protect our freedoms we enjoy every day,” said County Legislature Chairman Dan J. Reynolds. “The opening of the Veterans Resource Center and tiny homes is about making sure we give something meaningful back. This Center will serve as a hub of respect, gratitude and opportunity for Veterans in Broome County.”
The center is named in honor of Tim Grippen, a Vietnam War veteran and former Broome County Executive who dedicated his life to public service. His daughter, Kara Grippen, joined today’s ceremony to share remarks honoring her father’s legacy and his lifelong commitment to veterans and the community.
The project was made possible through $12.2 million in total funding, including $9.43 million in local funding, $1.77 million from the state, and $1 million in federal support from former Congressman Marc Molinaro, Senators Schumer and Gillibrand, Governor Kathy Hochul, Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo, State Senator Lea Webb, former State Senator and current Sheriff Fred Akshar, and Empire State Development.
“Our Southern Tier veterans sacrificed to protect our freedom, and it is our duty to take care of them and ensure they have a safe, affordable place to call home. I’m proud that $1 million in federal funding I secured for the Broome County Veterans Resource Center will help dozens of local veterans get access to affordable housing. I applaud Broome County’s work increasing access to housing and resources for its veterans, and I will continue working to deliver more affordable housing for the Southern Tier and across New York,” said Senator Chuck Schumer.
Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo said, “It's a wonderful day in Broome County as we celebrate the grand opening of the Veterans Resource Center and Tiny Homes community in time for Veterans Day. The center will provide the kind of comprehensive support veterans need and deserve, along with opportunities for housing. I’m proud to have joined together with many government partners and community leaders to support of this project. The $500K Assembly grant I secured is in recognition of the sacrifices our veterans have made, and the debt of gratitude we owe to each and every one of them.”
"Today marks an important moment for our community as we celebrate the grand opening of the Timothy M. Grippen Veterans Resource Center, a place dedicated to honoring and supporting those who have served our nation," said State Senator Lea Webb. "This new facility, along with the nearby tiny homes, reflects our community’s deep commitment to ensuring that veterans have access to safe housing, essential services, and the dignity they deserve. Supporting our veterans is not just a gesture of gratitude, it is a responsibility we proudly uphold.”
“Upstate New York has always come together to deliver for those who put their lives on the line in service of this country and our values. Thank you to everyone who helped make the new Timothy M. Grippen Veterans Resource Center a reality. This project honors a man who never stopped serving his community and keeps faith with our veterans by putting real support, housing, services, and community close to home. In Congress — and alongside you here at home — I am fighting to make sure our veterans get the care, support, and every opportunity their service has earned,” said Congressman
