Governor Tom Wolf announced today that the 2017-18 Veterans’ Trust Fund (VTF) is accepting grant applications for programs and services benefiting Pennsylvania veterans. The Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) will award up to $800,000 in VTF grants to non-profit organizations, veteran service organizations and county directors of veteran affairs across the state. Grant applications must be received no later than 3 p.m. EST on Friday, January 19, 2018.

“Our service members are held in high regard for their bravery, commitment and sacrifice,” said Governor Wolf. “That is why the Veterans’ Trust Fund is such an important resource for those who have served and continue to serve. The commonwealth is grateful for everyone who donates to the Fund on behalf of our veterans, war fighters, and their families in need.”

Up to a total of $150,000 in grant funding is available for new, innovative or expanded programs or services provided by county directors of veterans affairs or the Pennsylvania Association of County Directors of Veterans Affairs. The areas of emphasis for applicants in this category are veterans’ outreach and veterans’ court programs. 

Up to $650,000 in VTF funding is available to veteran service organizations and 501(c)(3) charitable organizations with a mission of serving Pennsylvania veterans. Funding priorities for applicants in this category are transitional housing or community living initiatives and unique veteran health services that address issues like homelessness, post-traumatic stress and behavioral health needs. 

Eligible applicants from either category may also submit applications for programs addressing newly identified, unmet or emerging needs of veterans and their families. 

Since the grant program began in 2013, 98 grants totaling $2,159,860 have been awarded to organizations providing services to veterans in Pennsylvania.

“As I travel throughout Pennsylvania and talk with veterans and service members, I am constantly reminded of the positive impact the Veterans’ Trust Fund has on so many lives,” said Maj. Gen. Tony Carrelli, Pennsylvania’s adjutant general. “We are fortunate that Pennsylvanians genuinely care about the quality of life of those who have sacrificed for our freedom. This caring nature is reflected in the generous financial support the Fund receives every year.”

The VTF is funded by generous Pennsylvanians who voluntarily donate when applying for or renewing driver’s licenses; photo IDs or motor vehicle registrations; purchase Honoring Our Veterans license plates; or make private donations.

The Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs is authorized to solicit and accept donations to the VTF on behalf of the commonwealth. Tax-deductible donations can be made online at www.donate.dmva.pa.gov or mailed to: PA Veterans’ Trust Fund, Bldg. 0-47 Fort Indiantown Gap, Annville, PA 17003. 

To learn more about the VTF and the grant application process, visit www.vtf.pa.gov or follow DMVA on Facebook at www.facebook.com/padmva.