Funding Helps Homeless Veterans Make New Starts
Westchester County Board of Legislators Chairman Vedat Gashi (D–New Castle, Ossining, Somers, Yorktown) and Legislator Colin D. Smith (D–Cortlandt, Peekskill, Yorktown) presented a $15,450 ceremonial check to My Brother Vinny, Inc. on Tuesday. The Yorktown-based nonprofit organization provides furniture, housewares, and home goods—free of charge—to formerly homeless U.S. veterans in New York State.
The county funding helps My Brother Vinny offset operational costs not covered by in-kind donations.
Paula Miritello, founder and director of My Brother Vinny, Inc., launched the 501(c)(3) organization in 2013 in honor of her late brother Vincent, who lived with cerebral palsy. Inspired by a chance encounter with a veteran who had secured housing but lacked basic necessities, Paula and her all-volunteer team have furnished homes for 3,065 veterans and counting. Through partnerships with local movers, civic organizations, and countless volunteers, My Brother Vinny has become a vital resource for veterans, transforming empty apartments into places of comfort and dignity.
Chairman Gashi said, “For veterans who have already given so much to our country, My Brother Vinny steps in at a critical moment to help with compassion and care. This funding assists them turn housing into homes. We are proud to support their life-changing work and grateful to their dedicated volunteers and partners.”
Legislator Smith said, “My Brother Vinny has been in the community for many years now and has become a real linchpin for our Veteran community. We are happy to recognize their work and support it at the Board of Legislators.”
Executive Director Paula Miritello said, “My Brother Vinny is a 100% volunteer, small but mighty organization serving homeless veterans. Homeless vets go into new homes with absolutely nothing–no bed, no dresser, no nightstands, the basic things people take for granted. Assisting our vets would not be possible without people joining together to support one another. That’s the most important part, knowing we matter and that we make a difference every day. I’m extremely grateful to the Board of Legislators and know our veterans are grateful. Thank you.”
Apply for help from My Brother Vinny, make a donation, or volunteer your time at their website: mybrothervinny.org.