Some context
The Texas Veterans Commission awarded more than $8.5 million in grants to 35 Central Texas organizations through its Grants Across Texas initiative, according to a news release issued by Gov. Greg Abbott. These funds, provided through the Fund for Veterans’ Assistance, will help deliver vital services to over 4,440 veterans and their families across 30 counties.
The news release states that Hays County received $250,000 for financial assistance and $350,000 for the Veterans Treatment Court.
Gerald Ramcharan, Hays County Veterans Treatment Court program administrator, said the TVC grant awards have saved Hays County $1.45 million to date.
The details
Ramcharan said the Hays County Veterans Treatment Court is a 12-24-month program focused on rehabilitation rather than punishment. Through collaboration with local partners, it provides structure, support and accountability. Most successful graduates have their charges expunged upon completion, he said.
The local impact
Ramcharan said the grant would be used to provide support and services to veterans who have been charged with misdemeanor criminal offenses and are struggling with mental health, family and substance use issues.
Ramcharan said the funds are allocated as follows:
- 44.4% to assigned treatment court staff—a program administrator and case manager
- 50.9% to client services
- 4.6% for training, travel and supplies
- A range of evidence-based therapies
- Substance abuse testing and monitoring
- Veterans community supervision officer—creates probation contracts, performs home evaluations and substance abuse testing
More than $359 million in grant funding has been awarded through 1,600 FVA grants since 2009, the state of Texas news release states.
The grants fund services such as financial aid, transportation, legal help, family support, home modifications and housing assistance. The grants are funded primarily by the Texas Lottery games designated for veteran support or through donations made when registering vehicles or getting hunting or fishing licenses.
A list of veterans service organizations and contact information can be found here.