Governor Abbott Announces Over $2.2 Million In Grants To West Texas Veteran Organizations

September 22, 2023 | Austin, Texas | Press Release

Governor Greg Abbott today announced 11 Fund for Veterans’ Assistance (FVA) grants totaling over $2.2 million were awarded to nine organizations in West Texas as part of the Texas Veterans Commission's (TVC) Big Check Tour. Presented today by TVC, the funding will provide services to more than 47,600 Texas veterans and their families across 23 counties in the FVA West Texas region. 

"America remains the greatest nation in the history of the world because of our dedicated service members who devote their lives to preserving our freedom and sovereignty," said Governor Abbott. "Texas is proud to support our veterans through these Fund for Veterans’ Assistance grants, which will expand access to services that veterans and their families need to lead successful lives in West Texas. I thank the Texas Veterans Commission for their continued work to ensure every region in Texas has the resources our veterans need to thrive."

“Thousands of West Texas veterans will benefit from the grants awarded to local organizations today,” said TVC Chairwoman and Navy veteran Laura Koerner. “From providing assistance to homeless veterans and our heroes with disabilities, these funds recognize their service and dignity.”

TVC Commissioner and Marine Corps veteran Mike Hernandez presented the grants at the El Paso County Courthouse. FVA presentations will continue through the first weeks of October in Edinburg, San Marcos, and New Braunfels.

 

The FVA grants awarded today include:

  • Child Crisis Center of El Paso: a $197,000 grant for support services
  • City of El Paso: a $50,000 grant for transportation programs and services
  • El Paso Coalition for the Homeless: a $130,000 grant for financial assistance
  • El Paso County:
    • a $300,000 grant for financial assistance
    • a $300,000 for Veterans Treatment Court
  • Habitat for Humanity of El Paso, Inc.: a $55,000 grant for home modification
  • Opportunity Center for the Homeless: a $300,000 grant for homeless veterans support
  • Project Amistad:
    • a $100,000 grant for clinical counseling
    • a $300,000 grant for financial assistance
  • The Salvation Army - El Paso: a $200,000 grant for homeless veterans support
  • YWCA El Paso del Norte Region: a $300,000 grant for support services

 

Funding for these grants is primarily generated by the Texas Lottery Commission’s games designated for veteran support. Other sources of funding for the grants come from individual donation options on drivers’ licenses, licenses to carry a handgun, outdoor recreation licenses for hunting and fishing, and vehicle registrations. 

Veterans in need of assistance can find the organizations providing help in their area and how to contact them at https://www.tvc.texas.gov/grants/assistance/