Deadline: 09-Jul-2026

The Improving Veteran Mental Health Grant Program provides grants of $150,000 to eligible nonprofit organizations that improve the mental health of military veterans through housing stability and evidence-informed support services. The one-year grant supports projects that increase permanent housing, improve housing affordability, and expand wraparound services to help veterans achieve long-term stability and well-being.

What Is the Improving Veteran Mental Health Grant Program?

The Improving Veteran Mental Health Grant Program supports nonprofit organizations that deliver evidence-informed programs designed to improve the mental health of military veterans.

The program recognizes that stable housing is a critical foundation for mental wellness. By investing in permanent housing, affordable housing solutions, and comprehensive support services, the program helps veterans build stable, independent lives while remaining active members of their communities.

Program Goals

Projects must align with at least one of the following objectives:

• Increase permanent housing available for military veterans.
• Improve housing affordability through rental assistance or mortgage assistance.
• Expand wraparound support services for veterans transitioning from shelters into permanent housing.

Funding Information

The program provides:

• Grant amount: $150,000.

Grant Period

Successful applicants will receive funding for:

• One year (12 months) of active program implementation.

Eligible Activities

The program supports evidence-informed initiatives that improve housing stability and mental health outcomes for military veterans.

Examples of eligible activities include:

Permanent Housing Initiatives

Projects that:

• Increase permanent housing opportunities for veterans.
• Expand access to long-term housing solutions.
• Improve housing stability and security.

Housing Affordability Programs

Funding may support:

• Rental assistance.
• Mortgage assistance.
• Housing affordability initiatives.
• Financial support that enables veterans to remain in stable housing.

Wraparound Support Services

Projects may include:

• Case management.
• Mental health services.
• Housing transition support.
• Community integration services.
• Healthcare referrals.
• Employment and financial support services.

Who Is Eligible?

Eligible applicants include U.S.-based organizations that implement projects either within or outside the United States.

Organizations must be public charitable organizations currently recognized as tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) or Section 170(b) of the Internal Revenue Code.

Eligible tax-exempt classifications include:

• 170(B)(1)(a)(i)
• 170(B)(1)(a)(ii)
• 170(B)(1)(a)(iii)
• 170(B)(1)(a)(iv)
• 170(B)(1)(a)(v)
• 170(B)(1)(a)(vi)
• 509(A)(2)

Why This Grant Matters

Housing insecurity is one of the major challenges affecting the mental health and overall well-being of military veterans. Stable housing, combined with comprehensive support services, helps veterans successfully transition to independent living and improve their long-term quality of life.

This grant program helps nonprofit organizations:

• Reduce veteran housing instability.
• Improve mental health outcomes.
• Expand access to affordable housing.
• Strengthen support services for veterans.
• Promote long-term independence.
• Build healthier and more resilient communities.

How to Apply

Follow these steps when preparing your application:

1. Confirm that your organization meets the eligibility requirements.
2. Develop a project that aligns with one or more of the program goals.
3. Design an evidence-informed approach to improving housing stability and veteran mental health.
4. Prepare a detailed implementation plan and project timeline.
5. Develop a realistic budget for the 12-month grant period.
6. Gather documentation confirming your organization’s tax-exempt status.
7. Complete and submit the application before the program deadline.

Tips for a Strong Application

To improve your chances of success:

• Clearly explain the housing challenges experienced by the veterans you serve.
• Demonstrate how your project improves mental health outcomes.
• Use evidence-informed practices and proven service models.
• Include measurable objectives and expected outcomes.
• Highlight partnerships with housing providers, healthcare organizations, or veteran service agencies.
• Present a realistic implementation timeline and budget.
• Explain how the project will create sustainable community impact.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common application mistakes:

• Applying without an eligible tax-exempt status.
• Proposing projects that do not align with the program goals.
• Failing to demonstrate how housing stability improves veteran mental health.
• Submitting incomplete budgets or project plans.
• Not providing evidence that the project uses evidence-informed approaches.
• Omitting required supporting documentation.

Key Definitions

Housing Stability

The ability of individuals to obtain and maintain safe, secure, and affordable housing over the long term.

Wraparound Services

A coordinated range of services that may include housing assistance, mental health care, healthcare referrals, employment support, financial counseling, and case management.

Evidence-Informed Programs

Programs developed using research, data, and proven practices that have demonstrated positive outcomes.

Veteran Mental Health

The emotional, psychological, and social well-being of military veterans, supported through services that promote resilience, recovery, and successful community integration.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the Improving Veteran Mental Health Grant Program?

It is a grant program that funds nonprofit organizations delivering evidence-informed housing and support services that improve the mental health of military veterans.

How much funding is available?

Eligible organizations may receive grants of $150,000.

How long is the grant period?

The funding supports projects implemented over one year (12 months).

Who can apply?

Eligible applicants are U.S.-based public charitable organizations recognized as tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) or Section 170(b) of the Internal Revenue Code. Organizations carrying out projects outside the United States are also eligible for consideration.

What types of projects are eligible?

Projects that increase permanent housing, improve housing affordability through rental or mortgage assistance, or provide wraparound services for veterans transitioning from shelters are eligible.

Can U.S.-based organizations implementing projects outside the United States apply?

Yes. The Foundation considers proposals from eligible U.S.-based organizations that execute projects outside the United States.

Why is this grant important?

The program addresses housing instability as a major factor affecting veteran mental health. By supporting stable housing and comprehensive support services, it helps veterans achieve long-term well-being, independence, and stronger connections within their communities.

Conclusion

The Improving Veteran Mental Health Grant Program provides significant funding to nonprofit organizations working to improve the lives of military veterans through stable housing and evidence-informed support services. By investing in permanent housing, affordable housing initiatives, and wraparound care, the program strengthens mental health outcomes, promotes long-term independence, and helps veterans remain healthy, resilient, and active members of their communities.

For more information, visit The Cigna Group.