The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has introduced a $42 million grant initiative to support veterans at risk of homelessness. The Legal Services for Veterans (LSV) Grant Program aims to fund organizations that provide essential legal aid to help veterans maintain housing, access benefits, and resolve disputes that can threaten their stability. The program reflects a growing recognition that legal challenges are a major barrier to long-term reintegration and security for veterans.
The initiative opens doors for nonprofits, law school clinics, tribal entities, and public legal aid agencies to apply for grants of up to $500,000 each. Funding covers a two-year period from October 1, 2025, to September 30, 2027, with applications due by July 7, 2025, at 4 p.m. ET. By addressing legal obstacles proactively, the VA aims to strengthen housing security and support veterans in achieving independence.
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Legal Support as a Foundation for Stability
Veterans often face challenges that extend beyond shelter or temporary housing. Many remain at risk due to unresolved legal issues, including eviction cases, suspended driver’s licenses, fines, or disputes related to benefits and family matters. Providing legal assistance directly addresses these barriers, enabling veterans to retain housing, maintain employment, and access necessary healthcare and financial support. This approach emphasizes prevention rather than reaction, aiming to reduce homelessness before it occurs.
Services Funded by the LSV Program
Grant recipients will provide a wide range of legal services essential to maintaining stability and independence. These services include:
- Eviction prevention and landlord-tenant dispute resolution
- Legal assistance with child custody, child support, and estate planning
- Representation in minor criminal and traffic cases
- Support with VA disability compensation and other benefit claims
These services ensure that veterans have the legal resources needed to protect their homes, families, and livelihoods.
Grant Funding and Structure
The VA has outlined clear funding parameters and deadlines to guide applicants. The table below summarizes the core details of the program:
| Detail | Specification |
|---|---|
| Total Funds Available | $42 million |
| Maximum Grant per Organization | $500,000 |
| Application Deadline | July 7, 2025, 4:00 p.m. ET |
| Grant Period | October 1, 2025 – September 30, 2027 |
| Administered By | U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs |
Eligibility and Application Requirements
Nonprofit legal service organizations, law school clinics, tribal entities, and public legal aid agencies are eligible to apply. Applicants must demonstrate their capacity to manage funds responsibly, provide targeted legal services for veterans, and track measurable outcomes. Key requirements include registration in SAM.gov, a valid DUNS or UEI number, and adherence to the terms outlined in the Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO).
Anticipated Impact on Veterans and Communities
By funding legal services directly, the program addresses root causes of homelessness rather than temporary symptoms. Legal aid helps veterans retain housing, resolve family disputes, and secure benefits, contributing to long-term economic stability. The initiative also strengthens community support networks by empowering organizations to deliver effective, measurable services that improve quality of life for veterans nationwide.
FAQ
Q1: Who is eligible to apply for the LSV grants?
A1: Nonprofit legal service organizations, law school clinics, tribal entities, and public legal aid agencies can apply.
Q2: What types of legal services are covered?
A2: Services include eviction prevention, family law support, minor criminal and traffic representation, and assistance with VA benefits.
Q3: How much funding can an organization receive?
A3: Each eligible organization can receive up to $500,000 over a two-year period.
Q4: When does the grant period start and end?
A4: The grant period runs from October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2027.
Q5: What is the deadline to apply?
A5: Applications must be submitted by July 7, 2025, at 4 p.m. ET.
