Simmy Foundation and Portage County Veterans Services work together for short-term answers

By Kris Leonhardt/Katelyn Voorhies

STEVENS POINT – Two local veterans organizations are teaming up to provide short-term crisis funding until long-term solutions for veterans struggling with mental health issues can be found.

The Simmy Foundation, Portage County Veterans Service, along with the Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin announced the collaboration during a check presentation held Dec. 2 in the entrance of the Portage County Courthouse, where the Portage County Veterans Emergency Relief Fund received $5,000 from the Simmy Foundation.

“Some time ago, the Simmy Foundation –  we work with veterans around the state supporting them specifically those were dealing with mental health challenges and needs – we met with Mike(Clements) and developed a working relationship and formed that sort of collaboration,” explained Andrew Hysell, representing the foundation.

“I think this is a good project, and it honors the legacy of Jason Simcakoski by helping other veterans. And, I look forward to this partnership and I’m glad this came to be,” stated Portage County Veterans Service Director Mike Clements.

The Simmy Foundation was created by the Simcakoski family in honor of their son, Jason. Jason was a 1997 graduate of Pacelli High School. He joined the Marine Corps and was honorably discharged in February 2002.

Jason passed away in August 2014.

After his passing, Jason’s family wanted to see that no other veteran suffered like Jason and through the foundation work to change the way veterans with mental health and addiction issues are treated.

Marvin Simcakoski is the president of the Jason Simcakoski Memorial Foundation, or Simmy Foundation for short.

“The Simmy Foundation is dedicated to the memory of my son, Jason, a veteran whose life and services fired us – my wife and I,” he said

“While we work around the state to support veterans Portage County is our home. That’s why it’s an honor to be here with Mike from the Portage County Veterans Service and Jenny from the Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin. Working in partnership with these folks, the Simmy Foundation will be able to provide additional support to area veterans in crisis.

“It is not uncommon for those who have served to suffer from conditions like PTSD and depression. These mental health issues can put veterans at risk for things like homelessness and chronic unemployment. With funds provided by the Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin, we will work together to provide short-term crisis funding until longer-term solutions are identified for those veterans in need.

“It’s an honor to help our veterans right here at home.”