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 the Gulf Coast and Houston area. The Texas Veterans Commission (TVC) administers these grants, which are expected to support over 5,200 veterans and their families 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.”
Kevin Barber, TVC Vice Chair and Army veteran, added: “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. 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 grant awards at Easter Seals of Greater Houston. The funds will go toward a range of services including financial assistance, clinical counseling, peer support, housing support under Housing for Texas Heroes, pro bono legal aid, treatment courts for veterans, skill-based training programs, homeless veteran outreach, and family support services.
Some recipients include Family Service Center of Houston and Harris County ($350,000), Harris County ($400,000), Lone Star Legal Aid ($350,000), PTSD Foundation of America ($350,000), United States Veterans Initiative ($650,000 combined), among others.
Earlier this year in May, Governor Abbott announced a record-breaking $46.3 million awarded through over 200 grants benefiting 175 organizations statewide—expected to help nearly 40,000 veterans or their dependents.
Since 2009 through the current grant cycle (2025–2026), FVA has distributed more than $359 million via more than 1,600 grants throughout Texas.
The FVA program supports a variety of needs ranging from emergency financial aid to legal assistance or housing modification. Grants fall into five categories: General Assistance; Housing for Texas Heroes; Veterans Mental Health Grants; Veterans Treatment Courts; Veteran County Service Officers.
Funding primarily comes from proceeds generated by certain Texas Lottery games dedicated to veteran support. Additional funding sources include donations made during vehicle registration or when obtaining hunting or fishing licenses.
Veterans seeking assistance can find relevant organizations through tvc.texas.gov/fund.
