Governor Greg Abbott has announced that more than $4.3 million in grants have been awarded to 14 veteran service organizations in South Texas, the Coastal Bend, and Harlingen areas. The funding comes from the Fund for Veterans’ Assistance (FVA) and is administered by the Texas Veterans Commission (TVC). These grants are expected to 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, Chairwoman of TVC and a Navy veteran, emphasized the importance of these grants: “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 grants were presented at an event held at the Harlingen Convention Center. Recipients include Cameron County ($300,000 for financial assistance), City of Harlingen ($400,000 for financial assistance; $500,000 for Housing for Texas Heroes), Council on Alcohol and Drug Abuse Coastal Bend ($200,000), CPLC Texas ($50,000 for peer support services), Golden Crescent Habitat for Humanity ($300,000), Goodwill Industries of South Texas ($125,000 for skill-based training), Hidalgo County (multiple awards totaling $600,000), Hidalgo County Community Action Agency ($150,000), Nueces County (multiple awards totaling $350,000), San Patricio County ($100,000), The Salvation Army – Corpus Christi ($200,000), Webb County (multiple awards totaling $300,000), Willacy County ($150,000), and Zapata County (multiple awards totaling $600,000).
Earlier this year in May, Governor Abbott announced a record-breaking $46.3 million in over 200 grants distributed among 175 organizations throughout Texas. This broader initiative aims to provide direct services to nearly 40,000 veterans as well as their dependents and surviving spouses.
Since its inception in 2009 through the current grant cycle ending in 2026, more than $359 million has been awarded via over 1,600 FVA grants.
These grants cover various services including emergency financial help; transportation; legal aid; family support; home modifications; rental assistance; mortgage help; mental health care; treatment courts specific to veterans; as well as resources provided by Veteran County Service Officers.
Funding primarily comes from proceeds of certain games offered by the Texas Lottery dedicated to supporting veterans. Additional contributions can be made when registering vehicles or obtaining hunting or fishing licenses.
Veterans seeking assistance can find local providers at https://tvc.texas.gov/fund.
