Serving the tens of thousands of veterans across New York state could soon become easier as one organization expands.

“It started out of pure frustration. I just couldn't stand seeing my friends in need. And nothing. No. Nothing I can do for them. That's what made me start this agency. And the agency has flourished, thank God," said Vincent Scalise, the executive director of the Utica Center for Development.

He is proud to say the organization now serves veterans and community members from the Canadian to Pennsylvanian borders.

A new Oneonta office is now open. Its mission to help provide food, supportive services and eventually housing to those living in the gap.

“The mayor has a homeless problem in his area, and he wants to do what he can to help it. And he called on us to see what we could do,” Scalise said.

The location is new, but the effort isn’t.

The Utica for Development has previously built apartments to helps veterans.

“Drastically lowered the amount of homeless veterans in our service areas, as well as, you know, homeless prevention, which means, a lot of people were not homeless yet, but they might get served with an eviction notice for arrears or something like that," he said.

Army veteran Art Gales, who is active with the local VFW, is excited for the center’s opening.

“The outreach center not only helps the veteran, but also helps the veterans’ families. And that's the big part. That's a big thing for the veterans because sometimes they can get help, but not necessarily their family members," Gales said.

“I joined the service because I like helping people, and I like serving my community. That was one of the things that really draw drew me to the National Guard because they get to serve at home and serve your community, as well as your country. And I just want to keep doing it," said Scalise.