The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has awarded $8 million in grants for adaptive sports programs that will benefit veterans and members of the armed forces with disabilities.
The VA will distribute the grants to 96 national, regional, and community programs serving all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. About 10,000 veterans and service members are expected to benefit. Grant recipients may use the funds for planning, developing, managing, and implementing adaptive sports programs. The grants will go to national governing bodies, which prepare high-level athletes for Paralympic competition; veterans service organizations; city and regional municipalities; and other community groups to provide a range of adaptive sports opportunities for eligible veterans and service members. The grants will support activities such as kayaking, sailing, cycling, skiing, equine therapy, equestrian sports, and other activities.
“We are honored to partner with so many organizations across the country to provide adaptive sports programs where our veterans live,” said David J. Shulkin, MD, VA secretary.
For information about the awardees and details of the program, visit www.va.gov/adaptivesports.