Defense Media Network

VA Offers $15 Million In Grant Funding To Support Adaptive Sports For Disabled Veterans

By U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs - March 29, 2019

U.S. Air Force veteran Anthony Pearson sprints through the curve during the 200m race at the 2018 Warrior Games at the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colo., June 6. The Warrior Games were designed to introduce wounded, ill and injured service members to adaptive sports, promote resiliency and encourage camaraderie. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Airman Leon Bussey.)

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced the availability of up to approximately $15 million in grants for community organizations that provide adaptive sports, including therapeutic recreational opportunities for disabled Veterans and disabled members of the armed forces.

VA awards grants to qualifying organizations to plan, develop, manage and implement programs serving Veterans.

“Grants help our nation’s Veterans by increasing and expanding the quantity and quality of adaptive sports opportunities at community organizations across the country,” said VA Secretary Robert Wilkie. “The independence, challenge and enjoyment of sports and recreation play a critical role in their successful rehabilitation and can improve their health and well-being.”

VA will make award decisions this fall based on a competitive selection. In fiscal year 2019, VA awarded approximately $9 million in Adaptive Sports Program grants to 103 organizations, estimated to serve more than 10,000 Veterans throughout all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico.

Details of the Notice of Funding Availability, including how to apply, can be viewed under the “Grant Program” tab online at VA Adaptive Sports Grant Program. All submissions will be accepted online at www.grants.gov. The deadline for applications to be submitted is May 14.