As a disabled veteran living in Westfield, Massachusetts, I understand firsthand the financial challenges many veterans face. After serving our country and returning home, veterans often struggle with limited income, especially when dealing with service-related disabilities and even those that don’t seem disabled but still deal with everyday financial challenges . For many of us, every dollar saved can significantly impact our quality of life. One of the biggest factors in veterans haven’t mental and emotional challenges had to do with financial stress 

Currently, the Westfield Water and Sewer Department offers discounts program to senior residents. However, this program does not extend its benefits to veterans or their households, forcing many to shoulder overwhelming costs in addition to other living expenses, every discount that seniors get from Westfield water and sewer should extend to veterans households.

Veterans have sacrificed immensely for our nation, and it's time to acknowledge their contributions by offering them tangible support on the home front. A simple amendment to include veterans and their families in Westfield's water and sewer discount program could alleviate some of the financial strain they experience daily. Veterans, especially those with disabilities, often live on fixed incomes, making utilities a significant burden on their monthly budgets. Extending this discount to veterans' households would be a small yet meaningful way to honor their service.

Statistical evidence shows that a significant proportion of veterans in our community face economic hardships. According to recent data, around 30% of disabled veterans encounter difficulties in meeting essential living expenses. Clearly, the need for financial assistance is pressing and real for this deserving group.

We urge the Westfield Water and Sewer Department and city officials to recognize the sacrifices made by our local veterans by extending the existing discount program to them. We propose collaborating with local veteran organizations to identify eligible households, ensuring the discount is efficiently and fairly distributed.

Join us in petitioning the Westfield City Council to make these necessary changes. Sign this petition to help provide the support our veterans deserve and to make a significant difference in their lives.