Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart Delivers $9 Million for Veterans Community Center in Collier County

GOLDEN GATE, FL - Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart (FL-26), Vice Chair of the House Appropriations Committee and Dean of the Florida Congressional Delegation, presented $9,000,000 in federal funding to Collier County for the Veterans Community Center, which will support the construction and full buildout of a Veterans Community Center within an existing facility, thereby improving access for the 28,000 veterans that live in Collier County.

The $9 million in federal funding is made possible by Congressman Díaz-Balart's unwavering advocacy for veterans in Florida's 26^thDistrict. The new facility will serve the veterans who call Collier County home, offering a centralized hub for resources, programming, and community engagement tailored to the needs of those who have served. It will provide a dedicated space where veterans and their families can access services, connect with fellow service members, and find the support they have earned through their sacrifice and service.

Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart said, "I am deeply honored to represent key parts of Collier County, the most veteran-friendly county in Florida, and proud to be consistently delivering for the district I have the privilege of representing by securing federal funds that reflect our values, including strong support for the brave men and women in the U.S. Armed Forces and our veterans.

"Leadership matters, and I am so grateful to Commissioner Burt Saunders, Dr. JB Holmes, current VFW Post Commander Michael Ricci, and former VFW Post Commander Tony "Gamal" Reyes for their tireless work on behalf of our veterans. This Veterans Community Center is possible in large part because of their unwavering dedication and advocacy for those who have served our country."

Collier County Commissioner Burt Saunders said, "This funding marks a significant milestone in our shared mission to provide veterans and active-duty service members with the essential services they have earned, all under one roof," said Commissioner Burt Saunders.

"This project would not be possible without Congressman Diaz-Balart's steadfast advocacy and dedication to our veteran community."

Background

This project received funding through the Senate Amendment to H.R. 7148, the Consolidated Appropriations Act 2026, which was approved by Congress and signed into law by the President on February 3, 2026.

Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart represents Florida's 26th Congressional District and serves as Vice Chair of the House Appropriations Committee. He is the Dean of the Florida Congressional Delegation and has been a leading advocate for the veteran communities.

###