More than $4.3 million in grants have been awarded to 14 veteran service organizations in South Texas, the Coastal Bend, and Harlingen areas, Governor Greg Abbott announced. The funds come from the Fund for Veterans’ Assistance (FVA) and are managed by the Texas Veterans Commission (TVC). This funding will support over 2,170 veterans and their families across 19 counties.
“For the brave men and women who secured our nation and defended our freedoms, Texas is forever grateful,” said Governor Abbott. “By investing in these 14 organizations and awarding more than $4.3 million in grant funding, Texas continues to strengthen our support and assistance programs for veterans and ensure that when they or their families face challenges, help is close to home. We stand shoulder to shoulder with every veteran in Texas.”
Laura Koerner, TVC Chairwoman and Navy veteran, said: “From the Rio Grande Valley to communities across South Texas, our veterans have always stepped forward with courage and honor. With these FVA grants awarded, veterans and their families in Harlingen and across the region will receive the support they need, whether it’s housing, financial aid, or counseling. TVC is honored to partner with outstanding community organizations who transform these funds into life-changing impact for veterans.”
The grant recipients were recognized at a presentation at the Harlingen Convention Center. Funding allocations include $300,000 for financial assistance in Cameron County; $400,000 for financial assistance and $500,000 for Housing for Texas Heroes in the City of Harlingen; $200,000 for financial assistance to the Council on Alcohol and Drug Abuse Coastal Bend; $50,000 for peer support services by CPLC Texas; $300,000 to Golden Crescent Habitat for Humanity for housing; $125,000 to Goodwill Industries of South Texas for skill-based training; various grants totaling more than half a million dollars each to Hidalgo County and Zapata County for housing and peer support services; as well as additional awards supporting transportation services in Webb County and Veterans Treatment Courts in Nueces County.
Earlier this year in May, Governor Abbott announced a record amount of over $46 million distributed through more than 200 grants statewide—a move expected to benefit nearly 40,000 veterans or their families.
Since its inception in 2009 through the current grant cycle ending 2026, over $359 million has been provided through more than 1,600 FVA grants. The program supports emergency financial help as well as services like transportation assistance, legal aid, family support programs, home modifications, rental help or mortgage relief.
Grants are funded mainly by revenue from certain games run by the Texas Lottery designated specifically for veteran support. Additional donations can be made during vehicle registration or when purchasing hunting or fishing licenses.
Veterans seeking assistance can find local organizations providing help at https://tvc.texas.gov/fund.
