ROCHESTER, N.Y. — ​A longtime Rochester shelter for homeless veterans is getting some needed upgrades.

The Veterans Outreach Center invited politicians and advocates to break ground on renovations to Richard’s House.

Located in the South Wedge, the house serves homeless male veterans, while offering them mental health and addiction services they may need.

"Today, we're starting the process of building something that's so much more than just a structure,” Laura Stradley, Veteran’s Outreach Center executive director, said. “We're building hope for the future in a safe, secure and beautiful place to call home.”

The Homeless Veteran’s Facility Project will be named in honor of Gary Beikirch, the Vietnam War Medal of Honor recipient and veterans advocate who died in December.