The Veterans Mental Health Services Program Grant was established by the Georgia Department of Veterans Service (GDVS) following the passage of House Bill 414, signed into law by Governor Brian Kemp on April 25, 2023. The program was created to expand and improve access to mental health services for military service members, veterans, and their families throughout the state of Georgia. The grant supports nonprofit community behavioral health organizations that deliver evidence-based services and demonstrate military cultural competency in their operations.
This program is funded through state appropriations, with a total of $1,000,000 allocated for Fiscal Year 2026. The grant cycle for FY2026 includes a second round of funding bids opening on October 10, 2025, and closing on November 10, 2025, at 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time. Cumulative funding for multiple approved applicants in this round cannot exceed $180,000. The grants are competitive and require matching funds, emphasizing the state’s goal of collaborative partnerships with organizations that already invest in veterans’ mental health initiatives.
Eligible applicants must be nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status located within Georgia that provide behavioral health services and employ evidence-based practices. Additionally, they must integrate military cultural competency training for their staff, be active partners in the Unite Us coordinated care network for referrals, and ensure timely discharge and connection to community-based mental health services for clients. Priority will be given to organizations within 50 miles of a military base and those requesting operational funding tied to projects with existing capital investment.
Applicants must submit a complete application package for consideration. Successful grantees are required to execute a Terms and Conditions agreement within 30 days of selection and must maintain an active Unique Entity Identifier (UEI), an approved vendor location in the Georgia Vendor Management System, and an approved budget. Because of these administrative requirements, organizations are encouraged to begin their registration and approval processes early.
Applications and inquiries should be directed to Mark Demers at the Georgia Department of Veterans Service. The department can also be contacted at gavetsvc@vs.ga.gov or by phone at (404) 656-2300. The program operates on an annual funding cycle and continues to strengthen Georgia’s infrastructure for supporting veterans’ mental health, ensuring that those who have served the nation have access to effective and culturally competent behavioral health care.
