SAN ANTONIO – More than $615,000 in federal grant funding is headed to South Texas organizations that provide adaptive sports programs for Veterans and active-duty service members, the Department of Veterans Affairs announced.
The VA said it awarded $615,062 in grants to South Texas community-based organizations in Texas that offer adaptive sports programs.
The funding is part of $16 million in grants awarded to 91 organizations nationwide to advance adapted sports programs for Veterans and active-duty service members.
According to the VA, adaptive sports programs give Veterans opportunities to build independence, well-being and quality of life through competitive and recreational activities. The VA said those activities include archery, skiing, cycling, wheelchair softball, hunting, fishing and others, and are designed to help Veterans rehabilitate through recreation while encouraging an active and healthy lifestyle.
“These grants help broaden access to adaptive sports programs that positively transform the lives of South Texas Veterans,” said Dr. Julianne Flynn, executive director of the South Texas Veterans Health Care System. “By expanding these opportunities, we empower Veterans with disabilities to stay engaged, strengthen their self-confidence, and connect with others through sports and recreation.”
The VA said that since the establishment of the Adaptive Sports Grant Program, it has awarded more than $150 million to expand access to adaptive sports nationwide.