Austin News

Governor Greg Abbott has announced the allocation of over $1.1 million in grants to support veterans involved in the justice system in Bexar County, Texas. The funding, provided through the Fund for Veterans’ Assistance (FVA), was awarded to the Bexar County Commissioners Court and Bexar County Misdemeanor Veterans Treatment Court. This initiative is part of the Texas Veterans Commission’s (TVC) Grants Across Texas presentations.

The grants aim to provide services to more than 450 veterans who have encountered legal issues. Governor Abbott emphasized the importance of supporting veterans who have faced traumatic experiences overseas, stating, “Veterans who were impacted by traumatic experiences overseas deserve a second chance at a better life.” He added that these grants will offer financial assistance and support services necessary for reintegration into society.

Laura Koerner, TVC Chair and Navy veteran, highlighted the role of Veteran Treatment Courts in offering second chances. She noted, “The impacts of trauma suffered during service can lead some veterans to make a bad choice along the way and become involved in the justice system.”

At an event held at Bexar County Courthouse in San Antonio, Chair Koerner presented four grants: $300,000 for financial assistance and $250,000 for a veteran treatment court program to the Bexar County Commissioners Court; and two $300,000 grants for a veteran treatment court program and peer support services to the Bexar County Misdemeanor Veterans Treatment Court.

Earlier this year, Governor Abbott announced 181 grants totaling over $44 million across Texas. These are expected to benefit more than 41,000 veterans and their families. Since 2009, over $313 million has been distributed through 1,400 FVA grants.

These funds support various services including emergency financial aid, transportation, legal assistance, family support services, home modifications, rental aid, and mortgage assistance. The TVC awards these grants under five categories: General Assistance; Housing for Texas Heroes; Veterans Mental Health Grants; Veterans Treatment Courts; and Veteran County Service Officers.

Funding primarily comes from designated games by the Texas Lottery Commission as well as donations via driver’s licenses applications and other state-issued licenses.

Veterans seeking assistance can find relevant organizations on tvc.texas.gov/fund. Organizations interested in applying for TVC grants must do so by November 12, 2024.