Health services cut for vets in Holyoke

HOLYOKE, Mass. (WWLP) - Budget cuts announced by Governor Deval Patrick mean no more outpatient services for veterans at the Soldiers' Home in Holyoke.

Up to 2,500 veterans will no longer receive healthcare, including checkups, prescription renewals, and doctor consultations as a result of 9C cuts.

The organization has also been forced to slash ten positions.

"We are stretched to the limit.  If we have further cuts down the road, that would affect us tremendously," said Acting Superintendent, Mike Pasterczyk.

State Senator Michael Knapik (R-Westfield) and State Representative Michael Kane (D-Holyoke) have sent a letter to the Governor asking him to reconsider the cuts.

A rally is also being held by staff and veterans at the home on Saturday, November 14th at Crosier Field from one to three o'clock in the afternoon.