Rep. Bill Owens (D-Plattsburgh) has calculated that nearly $3 million in government funds went to constituents in 2013 directly because of the constituent service outreach his office provides.

In his annual constituent service review, Owens said that since he was elected to Congress in 2009, he has secured $8,895,163.33 in government funds through his constituent service outreach program. This year, he helped 1194 constituents with individual concerns.

“I am proud of what my staff and I accomplished in 2013, and encourage all of my constituents to contact my office if they think we can help,” Owens said in a press release.

In the last year, he sent 47,424 pieces of correspondence in response to constituents who called, emailed or wrote him expressing their views and concerns. He also connected with 27,480 people at town hall events and through telephone town halls that allowed constituents across the 16,000 square mile district to ask questions and share their views with him.

Owens also appointed members to two advisory committees he initiated this year. As the Farm Bill moved through the House and Senate, Owens sought the advice of the New York farmers who comprise his Agricultural Advisory Committee. He also sought the perspective of members of his Women’s Advisory Committee and their take on legislation before the House and the New York State Assembly and State Senate.

Rep. Owens’ offices across the 21st Congressional District and in Washington, DC can assist constituents with a wide-range of services.

One example he provided was that of a veterans’ widow who was wrongfully denied benefits her husband earned in the military. Owens said he was able to help her get them back. The back-owed benefits added up: he was able to secure the $245,468.37 the VA owed her.

To reach Owens, visit Owens.house.gov and click on Constituent Services, or call 202-225-4611.