Reschenthaler Tours American Veterans (AMVETS) National Headquarters and National Charities Family Service Center

Reschenthaler Tours American Veterans (AMVETS) National Headquarters and National Charities Family Service Center

WASHINGTON, PA - Chief Deputy Whip Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA) toured the American Veterans (AMVETS) National Headquarters and National Charities Family Service Center which is nearing completion in Washington, Pennsylvania. AMVETS is a non-partisan, congressionally chartered Veterans Service Organization that serves and advocates for all who have honorably served in the U.S. military, including the Reserves and Guard. It is partnering with the American Optometric Association in the relocation of its Headquarters and Service Center from Washington, DC to Washington County.

"As a Navy veteran, it was an honor to tour the AMVETS facility in Washington today," said Reschenthaler. "This facility meets the needs of southwestern Pennsylvania's veterans and their families by bringing one of the nation's largest Veterans Service Organizations to the region. I applaud AMVETS and its partner organizations for this important work and look forward to seeing the positive impact this facility has on veterans in our community and across this nation."

"Relocating the AMVETS National Headquarters to southwestern Pennsylvania has been an honor and a testament to the unbreakable spirit of our nation's veterans," said AMVETS National Executive Director Joe Chenelly. "The people here aren't just supportive-they're the epitome of patriotism, rolling out the red carpet with open arms, showing their profound respect for those who've served. It's invigorating to see such heartfelt enthusiasm from this remarkable community, making this move feel like coming home to the heartland of American valor."

"The Pennsylvania Optometric Association and the American Optometric Association are proud to join together with Congressman Reschenthaler and other local dignitaries in welcoming AMVETS to their new home in Washington PA," said Dr. Robert Bittel, Owner of Bittel Vision Care. "We are honored to be able to help AMVETS stand-up their new National Charities Family Service Center and remain committed to ensuring the success of that first-of-its-kind facility helping to keep veteran families together while providing vital support services. We also remain committed to ensuring our veterans have access to the vision and eye health care they need and deserve, when are where they need it. The third-most requested service by veterans nationwide, eye and vision care is about so much more than just seeing well - the eye really is the window to our overall health. Through a comprehensive eye exam, optometrists can help detect early signs of diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, autoimmune disorders, certain types of cancers, and so much more. Together, we can help ensure happier and healthier lives for those that put it all on the line for all of us."

The AMVETS National Charities Family Service Center, located in a renovated 35,000 square foot building, will provide transition housing and comprehensive support for veterans and their families at risk of homelessness. Unlike most facilities which separate families in need, this facility will keep families together, offering scalable housing tailored to family size and need. Onsite services will include professional caseworkers, VA claims representation, career counseling, legal support, childcare, and additional family-focused resources.

Reschenthaler is a veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom and served as an officer in the U.S. Navy Judge Advocate General's Corps.