United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley Announces the United for Veterans’ Mental Health Grant
United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley announces the 2024 United for Veterans’ Mental Health Grant designed to support programs that directly address veterans’ mental health in Lehigh, Northampton and Carbon Counties. A priority of this grant opportunity is to support veterans in rural communities.
Veterans’ mental health is a critical issue that requires ongoing attention and support. Many veterans face unique challenges, including the transition from military to civilian life, exposure to traumatic events and the physical and emotional scars of combat. These experiences can lead to a range of mental health issues, such as PTSD, depression and anxiety. Approximately 5.4% of the Lehigh County population are veterans. One in four veterans meet the diagnostic criteria for a mental health issue. Unfortunately, stigma and barriers to accessing care often prevent veterans from seeking the help they need. By providing comprehensive and accessible mental health services, we can better support our veterans and ensure they receive the care and respect they deserve.
United for Veterans’ Mental Health is a new grantmaking initiative open to Lehigh Valley nonprofit organizations that provide support and mental health programming to veterans. Grants between $5,000 – $20,000 will be available for programs that support veterans’ mental health in Lehigh, Northampton and Carbon Counties. This can include peer support, connection to resources, programs that remove barriers to accessing resources, outreach efforts and more. Funding for programs that support veterans living in rural communities will be prioritized.
Applications opened on Monday, September 9, 2024. This grant will fund agencies and programs for one year, January 2025 – December 2025.
To learn more about the United for Veterans Mental Health Grant, please visit www.unitedwayglv.org/united-for-veterans.
