Bolstering Key Veteran Services, Jan. 4

The Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs is now seeking grant proposals from nonprofits and other service providers who want to help expand needed services for Oregon veterans. The grant program was created to improve services in a number of key areas, including mental and physical health care, housing, employment opportunities and stability, education and training opportunities, transportation, and promoting veterans’ organizations that provide critical services for veterans. “One of the things that defines the Oregon veteran community is our ability to creatively and effectively harness available resources to make a difference for veterans,” said Sheronne Blasi, acting director of the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs. “We see it happen every day. This grant opportunity is about supporting that work, expanding services for veterans in their communities, and we’re confident it will make a big impact.” Funding for the program comes from the Veteran Services Grant Fund, which was established by the Legislature in 2017 with its passage of House Bill 2891. The Veteran Services Grant Fund is funded by Oregon Lottery revenue, which was made possible through voters’ approval of Measure 96 in November 2016. Eligible organizations include nonprofit organizations incorporated under 501(c)(3), veterans organizations incorporated under 501(c)(19), tribal, regional, local governments, or state agencies, Oregon quasi-public agencies and Oregon intergovernmental agencies. Grant proposals must be received by Feb. 1, 2018, to be considered. All awards will be one-time grants, ranging from $25,000 to $250,000. Grant awards will be announced in the spring of 2018. Proposals must be submitted through the Oregon Procurement Information Network (or ORPIN) site, http://orpin.oregon.gov. For more information or questions about this grant opportunity, please contact ODVA Senior Policy Advisor Laurie Skillman at laurie.skillman@state.or.us.