Sen. Cicarella, East Haven GOP Legislators Applaud Expected State Funding for East Haven Veterans

Bond Commission expected to approve $500,000 for American Legion Post 89 handicap accessibility and key building upgrades.

State Sen. Paul Cicarella (R-North Haven), House Minority Leader Vincent Candelora (R-North Branford), and State Rep. Joe Zullo (R-East Haven) today applauded the announcement of a $500,000 grant-in-aid to East Haven’s Harry R. Bartlett American Legion Post 89 for roof, handicap access, restroom, and handicap ramp installation upgrades. The State Bond Commission is expected to approve the grant award at its next meeting on Dec. 20.

“I was proud to work with Immediate Past Cmdr. Butch Mannochi, Cmdr. Chris Griswold, Chaplain Wendy Bellmore, and the entire Post 89 to get this request in front of the legislature for authorization, and I thank my colleagues for doing so. This funding will enable Post 89 to accommodate and be fully inclusive for all Veterans and potential users. The legion and its members do tremendous good for our community. These improvements will enable them to serve our community in new ways by hosting blood drives and assisting with disaster relief and response efforts, as they continue to help others after so honorably serving our nation. I look forward to the Bond Commission and Governor Lamont’s approval on Dec. 20,” said Sen. Cicarella.

Rep. Zullo said, “The American Legion serves as a home not only for the local legion organization, but as a hub for veterans affairs in East Haven. This critical improvement will improve access to the legion building and expand the scope and level of engagement the legion can have with veterans in East Haven and across the region. I am proud to have left my voice to this cause and thankful for the support of the Governor, colleagues on the bonding subcommittee, and leadership on both sides of the aisle in shepherding this project over the finish line. Above all, I am thankful for Sen. Cicarella’s strong and sustained advocacy for this project. Without his leadership, it is unlikely this project would be moving forward in this fashion.”

“I am thrilled about news of this vital funding for Post 89 in East Haven. This grant is a testament to the collaborative spirit of the East Haven legislative delegation, driven by Sen. Cicarella on this issue, and the leadership at Post 89, an organization whose commitment to serving our Veterans and the broader community is exemplary. These upgrades will ensure that the post is accessible and inclusive for all, enabling it to continue its proud tradition of service. Whether it’s supporting our Veterans, hosting community events, or providing critical services during times of need, Post 89 stands as a model of dedication and care. I applaud the efforts that made this funding possible and look forward to seeing the positive impact these improvements will bring to East Haven and beyond,” said Rep. Candelora.

The project includes adding a three-level elevator to provide full handicap accessibility for Veterans with limited mobility because of illness or injury. Handicap accessibility will also benefit Post 89 and the community by allowing for, and attracting, increased use to meet both its mission and the mission of its many community partners like scouting organizations, youth auxiliary cadets, and other nonprofits.

Post 89 celebrated its 100^thCharter Anniversary in 2022, which was when its membership made a commitment to the next 100 years in service to our Veterans and doing the important work of the American Legion.

Read more about the Harry R. Bartlett American Legion Post 89 and its mission here.