SHAHEEN WELCOMES VA SECRETARY SHINSEKI FOR VET CENTER TOUR

(Hooksett, NH) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) welcomed Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric Shinseki to New Hampshire today for a tour of the new site of the Manchester Vet Center in Hooksett. Shaheen worked closely with the Department of Veterans Affairs to approve the center’s relocation and secure final approval of the contract.

“It’s terrific to have Secretary Shinseki here today for our first look at the future home of the Manchester Vet Center,” said Senator Shaheen. “Our veterans have earned the right to quality, local care and getting this new facility approved has been an important step to delivering on that commitment. I look forward to continue working with the Secretary to get this facility opened as soon as possible.”

Shinseki was in New Hampshire to tour the new facility site and discuss veterans’ needs with local Department of Veterans Affairs officials. U.S. Representative Frank Guinta (R-NH) was also part of the tour.

Shaheen and Senator Kelly Ayotte (R-NH) sent a letter to Shinseki in March urging his department to approve a contract that would allow the Vet Center to relocate. Delays in the approval process had been holding up the relocation to the Hooksett facility for over two years.  

The current Vet Center in Manchester has had significant safety concerns and is too small for veterans to hold many of their activities. As a result, area veterans have been forced to find alternative spaces to meet. The new center will increase the center’s space from 2,200 square feet to 4,975 square feet and will feature new space for physical therapy, educational activities and group meetings.