Lorraine Dame, MNIT, Local 1102

We want veterans to know we appreciate their service. Our MNIT team partnered with the Minnesota Department of Veteran Affairs (MDVA) to deliver website capabilities that enable Minnesota Veterans to apply for state COVID-19 assistance programs online and not have to travel for this, or meet in person to apply, during the pandemic.

The COVID-19 Disaster Relief Grant offered by the MDVA is to help lessen the negative effects and economic impact COVID-19 has had on Minnesota veterans and their families by providing a one-time $1,000 grant.  The COVID-19 Special Needs Grant provides one-time financial assistance to a veteran and/or surviving spouse who needs assistance due to a COVID-19-related event, and awards would go directly to a vendor or creditor. [More information on both types of grants is available at www.mn.gov/mdva/blog/?id=1066-425565]

It makes me feel very proud of my job. I like the notion that the state appreciates the contributions of veterans and recognizes these contributions, and I can be part of that. The state programs provide value and are online and available to the public at https://gibill.mn.gov. 

I especially enjoyed working on this website project because we got to use up-to-date technology to build it. We have a great team of talented and skilled people, and I really liked being part of the team and part of the charge.