This program is supported by a grant from the Texas Veterans Commission Fund for Veterans’ Assistance. The Fund for Veterans’ Assistance provides grants to organizations serving veterans and their families. For more information on the Texas Veterans Commission, visit https://www.TVC.Texas.gov

ABOUT THE PROGRAM:

“Veterans’ Financial Assistance Program” will provide assistance to eligible Veterans, Veterans Dependents and Surviving Spouses. Eligible Veterans are those that have an honorable, general under honorable conditions and uncharacterized discharge status. Through the program, Silver Sage will assist beneficiaries with short-term and temporary financial Emergency Services to include: one-time utility payments (may include electric, gas, propane, water, sewer, trash, late fees), one-time rental/mortgage payment (may include rent, mortgage, late fees, application fees, security deposits), and transportation services (may include bus passes, city and county transit passes, council of government transit service passes, taxis, and ride shares (Uber)). Silver Sage will not require beneficiaries to meet a poverty or other income level as a requirement for eligibility. Financial need will be determined by the veteran being behind on rent or mortgage (s) and/or utilities.

Service Areas:

Bandera, Kendall, Kerr, Medina, Real, Gillespie.

Your Veteran Service Coordinators

John Cressey-Neely - Veteran Service Coordinator

830-328-6355

Email: john@silversage.org

Born on August 25, 1960, in Hastings-on-Hudson, New York, John Cressy-Neely demonstrated unparalleled dedication to service through an illustrious career spanning military, civilian, and community leadership roles. After graduating high school in 1978, John joined the United States Marine Corps, where he rose through the ranks to retire in 2008 as a Chief Warrant Officer-5 (CWO5). Over 30 years of military service, including 14 years of executive-level expertise as an International Maintenance & Logistics Officer, he served in three countries across six military agencies, managing teams of up to 130 personnel. His service highlights include embassy security duty in New Delhi, India, and Paris, France, as well as commanding roles overseeing the readiness and maintenance of expansive vehicle fleets. Among his many recognitions, he earned the Legion of Merit and multiple commendation medals. In his civilian career, John continues to lead and serve. As Chief Operations Officer at the Bandera County Committee on Aging (Silver Sage), he oversees essential community programs, such as Meals on Wheels, delivering tens of thousands of meals and services annually. His operational and logistical expertise is evident in the implementation of modern tracking systems and the management of financial reimbursements exceeding $345,000 in FY 2024. John’s previous roles include Director of Logistics in Kuwait, Director of Maintenance in Afghanistan, HVAC installer, and postal support employee. In each position, he has applied his keen organizational skills and commitment to excellence, whether establishing maintenance facilities in combat zones or supporting local communities in Texas. With a career shaped by discipline, leadership, and a deep sense of service, John Cressy-Neely has left an indelible mark across military, professional, and community landscapes. John is more than capable in serving our Veteran community in Bandera and neighboring counties.