'Heroes at Home Plate' Veterans Dinner creates community

AMSTERDAM, N.Y. (NEWS10) — A heart-felt community event in Amsterdam took place on Saturday to honor local service members and to remind them they’re not alone. The “Heroes at Home Plate” baseball dinner brought veterans, active-duty service members, and their families together — using food and community support to combat isolation and veteran suicide.

“When someone is in the military serving active duty, their spouses, their children, their families are at home also serving.” said Sara Boerenko, Director of the Health Department for Montgomery County.

Alongside partnering with the Amsterdam Mohawks baseball team, the event is part of the Joseph P. Dwyer program — a New York State-funded initiative providing peer support and mental health resources for veterans in communities across the state. Boerenko went on to say, “Part of that program is providing events, as we are today, to honor our veterans and their service and to bring awareness to the community in regard to suicide prevention efforts that we have in the county for our veterans.”

Veterans say community and understanding can go a long way in breaking down stigma and building support. “Veterans need your support. The way we’ve been getting support and don’t assume the worst out of a veteran because most veterans are going to be a conduit to helping your community.” added David Mendez, a Retired Navy Commander.

Local leaders say even one event like this can change — and save lives, by making sure veterans feel seen and supported. “These community events are very meaningful connecting veterans peer to peer, making sure that veterans know they are not alone.” said Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara.

It’s not just veterans who benefit. Family members say events like this honor the sacrifice they make too — and remind them they’re not in this alone. Meghan Manion, Montgomery County Attorney, grew up in a military family and said, “The families are the support system for the veterans. And a lot of times it’s like it’s a group effort and the veterans are fighting overseas and putting in the hard work and the scary work. And the families are at home thinking of them and supporting them with their thoughts and their prayers.”

 For more information on the Joseph P Dwyer Veteran Peer Support Project, head to their website.