HARRISBURG, PA — In a heartfelt tribute to Pennsylvania’s veterans, Governor Josh Shapiro and First Lady Lori Shapiro hosted a luncheon at the Governor’s Residence on Friday, celebrating the service and sacrifice of the state’s nearly 800,000 veterans. This event, timed ahead of Veterans Day on November 11, was conducted in collaboration with renowned Chef Robert Irvine and the Robert Irvine Foundation, underscoring the administration’s enduring commitment to veteran support.
Pennsylvania, home to the fourth-largest veteran population in the United States, has seen significant efforts under the Shapiro Administration to enhance veteran services across the Commonwealth. These efforts include significant improvements to veterans’ care facilities, increased investment in mental health services, and expanded workforce training programs tailored to veterans and military families. Governor Shapiro emphasized these commitments, remarking on the administration’s dedication to ensuring veterans can thrive in Pennsylvania, “Our veterans have defended our Commonwealth and upheld our freedoms, and my Administration is proud to support them every day.”
A highlight of the luncheon was the participation of Chef Robert Irvine, whose foundation runs the Breaking Bread With Heroes program. This initiative, dedicated to serving meals to servicemembers and veterans, has hosted events around the globe, offering over 60,000 meals since its inception. Chef Irvine expressed his honor in participating, stating, “Today is all about our veterans. Together, we’re showing appreciation, and there’s no better way to show our love for the nation’s heroes than breaking bread over a delicious meal.”
Brigadier General John Pippy, Acting Pennsylvania Adjutant General, echoed the sentiments of gratitude, noting the importance of such events in acknowledging the sacrifices of American heroes, both on Veterans Day and throughout the year.
Since taking office, the Shapiro Administration has launched numerous initiatives to facilitate veterans’ access to earned benefits. The 2024-25 budget notably secured a historic $1.1 billion in compensation and pension benefits for veterans, marking a 10% increase from the previous year. Additionally, a new walk-in outreach center outside Fort Indiantown Gap has been established, providing servicemembers and their families with centralized access to resources and support.
The administration has also focused on enhancing the transition of veterans to civilian life through the Military Crosswalk program, which aids in acquiring occupational licenses and employment. Furthermore, over $61 million has been invested in workforce training programs over the past two years, benefiting veterans through apprenticeships, technical education, and initiatives like the Veterans Employment Program and PA Veteran Farming Network.
The luncheon exemplifies the Shapiro Administration’s broader strategy to maintain veterans’ issues at the forefront of state policy, ensuring that their legacy of service and sacrifice is continually honored and supported.
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