Houston Daily

Governor Greg Abbott has announced that more than $7.9 million in Funds for Veterans’ Assistance (FVA) grants have been awarded to 38 organizations serving veterans and their families in the Southeast Texas Gulf Coast and Houston area. The grants, administered by the Texas Veterans Commission (TVC), are expected to benefit over 5,200 veterans across 13 counties.

“In Texas, we will always stand with the brave men and women who selflessly fought for the freedom and liberties we enjoy today,” said Governor Abbott. “This over $7.9 million in grants will provide crucial services and financial support for our veterans and their families in the Gulf Coast and Houston so they can lead successful lives in our great state. Texas will never forget our veterans, their families, and their service to our state and our country."

TVC Vice Chair Kevin Barber emphasized the region’s large veteran population: “The Gulf Coast is home to one of the highest concentrations of veterans not only in Texas, but the country, and it is our responsibility as their state advocates to link them to local resources,” he said. "I sincerely thank each of our award recipients for serving our veterans. Your organizations are recognized for making a difference in the lives of those who served."

Barber presented the grants at Easter Seals of Greater Houston. The funding supports a range of services including financial assistance, clinical counseling, peer support services, housing programs such as Housing for Texas Heroes, legal aid, skill-based training support, homeless veteran support, family support services, treatment courts for veterans, pro bono legal services, Meals on Wheels programs for seniors who are veterans, and specialized therapy.

Some notable grant recipients include Family Service Center of Houston and Harris County ($350,000), Harris County ($400,000), Houston Habitat for Humanity ($350,000), Lone Star Legal Aid ($350,000), PTSD Foundation of America ($350,000), United States Veterans Initiative ($650,000 combined), Easter Seals of Greater Houston ($375,000 combined), among others.

Earlier this year in May, Governor Abbott announced a record-breaking $46.3 million in grants to 175 organizations across Texas through more than 200 awards. These funds are projected to help nearly 40,000 veterans statewide.

Since 2009 through the current 2025-2026 grant cycle, more than $359 million has been distributed through over 1,600 FVA grants. 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.

The funding comes primarily from revenue generated by designated games from the Texas Lottery, along with donations made during vehicle registration or when obtaining hunting or fishing licenses.

Veterans seeking assistance can find information about available organizations at tvc.texas.gov/fund.