Capital District Women Veterans Celebrates Ribbon Cutting for Christopher House.

For Immediate Release --RSVP [email protected]
Date June 21, 202

On Saturday June 19, 2021 at 11:00 AM, the Capital District Women Veterans (CDWV) hosted a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony to announce the female veteran supportive housing residence, called “Christopher House”,  at 515 First Street in South Troy, NY.

The event started at the Polish American Club, 507 First Street, Troy, NY with a welcome speech by past Mayor of Troy, Lou Rosamelia, introducing Executive Director, Dr. Christine Rem, US Retired COL Army Nurse Corps, RN, DNS, founder of the Capital District Women Veterans, Inc. who spoke about the mission and vision of the organization and explained how Christopher House will fulfill the need for supportive housing and case management services for homeless women vets in the Capital District.  
 
Paying tribute to the importance of the project, Guest speakers included: Congressman Paul Tonko, NYS Assemblyman John McDonald, Rensselaer County Executive Steven McLaughlin, and Troy City Mayor Patrick Madden. County Legislators Dan Casale and Carol Weaver presented a special proclamation from the County legislature. Mayor Madden also presented a similar tribute from the City of Troy. Rensselaer County DA Mary Pat Donnelly, County Veterans Agency Director Peter Goebel, and Erin Sullivan, legislator attended the event.  Troy City Council was also represented: Carmella Mantello, Ken Zalewski, and Kim McPherson.
 The dedication and special blessing was done by CHMG Donald Rutherford US Army Retired 23rd Chief of Chaplains. 

Special recognition for participating in the event: Patriot Guard Riders New York, Rolling Thunder Inc. Chapter 5, Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association 19-1, Veterans of Lansingburgh, Joseph E. Zaloga American Legion Post, and Saratoga Veteran Peer to Peer.
​
CDWV Board members in attendance: Jane Kodela Cordts (Treas, Executive Board Member); Diane Baldwin, COL(retired), RN; Joshua Bills, Gold Star stepson
 
CDWV is a 501C(3) charitable organization whose mission is to provide supportive services and community housing to assist Women Veterans in need and those transitioning from the military to civilian life. Individual Case Management will provide personalized assistance connecting clients with vital services such as housing, education, job placement, health care access and various healing programs for mind and body.

---

See photos and more