Governor Greg Abbott has made a significant move to support Central Texas veterans by awarding over $8.2 million in grants to local service organizations. These grants, dispersed among 31 different groups, are poised to assist more than 7,600 vets and their family members. In a statement obtained by the Office of the Texas Governor, Abbott expressed the state's gratitude for veterans’ sacrifices and reaffirmed Texas's commitment to ensuring their successful integration into civilian life.
The allocation of funds will cover a wide array of services, including the addition of a new service dog program, legal support, and aid for homeless veterans. According to TVC Vice Chair and Army veteran Mary Lopez Dale, the spirit of service in Central Texas is sharply reflected in the breadth of support provided by these grants. Dale presented the grants at the Bullock Texas State History Museum in the capital city. This presentation is part of a larger tour, dubbed 'Grants Across Texas', which will be making stops throughout the region until mid-October.
Among the diverse array of services supported by these grants, the Austin Bar Foundation will receive $130,000 for pro bono legal services, and the Austin Dog Alliance is set to get a $255,000 financial boost for their service dog program. Housing-related supports are also a focal point, with multiple organizations such as Austin Habitat for Humanity and Easter Seals Central Texas scheduled to receive funds for home modifications. Essential clinical counseling and financial assistance programs across various counties also form part of the funded services.
Since 2009, the Fund for Veterans’ Assistance (FVA) has distributed more than $313 million through 1,400 grants, as the current 2024-2025 grant cycle continues. The grants aim to provide continued support to veterans in essential areas, from emergency financial aid to housing solutions. The Texas Veterans Commission (TVC) offers these in five main categories, with the majority of the funding stemming from Texas Lottery Commission's veteran-designated games and charitable options available through state license and vehicle registration processes.
For Texas veterans seeking support, details on organizations providing aid and how to contact them can be found on the TVC website. Moreover, organizations looking to apply for future TVC grants need to submit their applications by November 12, to be considered for funding.
