Western New York’s Veterans and military families now have faster, easier access to state benefits thanks to a new digital kiosk unveiled Wednesday by the New York State Department of Veterans’ Services.
The kiosk, located inside the Western New York Welcome Center on Grand Island, connects users to over 60 state programs and services through a secure, 24/7 interactive portal.
“Whether they are returning home or just visiting, Veterans in Western New York now have a trusted, easily accessible place to connect with the benefits they have earned,” said DVS Commissioner Viviana M. DeCohen. “By placing our digital kiosks in welcoming, well-traveled locations such as the Western New York Welcome Center on Grand Island, we are removing barriers and building bridges.”
Grand Island’s location between Buffalo and Niagara Falls was selected for its high visibility and its significance to the region’s Veteran community. The kiosk offers direct access to benefits, support, and contact information for DVS’s accredited Veterans Benefits Advisors—all of whom are Veterans.
DVS launched the kiosk program in 2021 and has since expanded it to airports, malls, train stations, museums, and public buildings across New York. With the Grand Island installation, the department has fulfilled its promise to place a kiosk at every New York State Welcome Center.
“This cutting-edge technology reflects the future of Veteran service delivery,” said Executive Deputy Commissioner Joel Evans. “Our kiosks are secure, intuitive, and immediate—and they empower Veterans to take charge of their well-being.”
The program has received national recognition, including the 2024 Abraham Lincoln Pillars of Excellence Award from the National Association of State Directors of Veterans Affairs. The initiative was also highlighted in Governor Hochul’s State of the State addresses and has drawn attention from other states interested in adopting similar systems.
Wednesday’s unveiling brought together leaders from multiple Veteran service organizations in the region, including the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Western New York Gold Star Mothers, WNY Heroes, SUNY Buffalo, and Niagara County Veterans Service Agency, among others.
New York’s Department of Veterans’ Services encourages all who served to connect with its advisors by visiting veterans.ny.gov or calling 888-838-7697.
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