In a bold step to address rising mental health challenges among military veterans, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has announced \$52.5 million in new grant funding under the Staff Sgt. Parker Gordon Fox Suicide Prevention Grant Program. These funds are intended to support local organizations that work with at-risk veterans, particularly those outside the traditional VA healthcare system.
By partnering with nonprofits, tribal entities, and local government agencies, the VA aims to bring vital services like crisis intervention, mental health care, peer support, and housing assistance to veterans in their own communities—especially in rural or underserved areas.
Purpose of the Staff Sgt. Fox Grant Program
This grant initiative is designed to prevent suicide among veterans before they reach a critical breaking point. The goal is to intervene early by funding community-based services that directly address the daily challenges veterans face.
Grants can be used for a wide range of support services, including:
- Suicide prevention programs
- Mental health assessments and ongoing treatment
- Emergency financial and housing assistance
- Peer mentoring and community reintegration programs
- Transportation for medical and mental health care visits
Organizations applying must already be engaged in serving veterans and have the capacity to deliver effective, localized support.
A Tribute to Staff Sgt. Parker Gordon Fox
The program is named in honor of Staff Sgt. Parker Gordon Fox, a U.S. Army soldier who died by suicide. His story sparked a national conversation and helped pass the Commander John Scott Hannon Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act in 2019, which laid the foundation for this funding initiative.
Since its launch in 2022, the grant program has awarded over \$157.5 million to 95 organizations across 43 states and territories. These funded projects have already delivered life-saving support in the form of counseling, crisis management, and housing resources.
How Much Funding Can Groups Receive?
Each selected organization can receive up to \$750,000 to carry out eligible programs. Projects can be structured as one-year efforts or span multiple years if approved for renewal.
Groups must submit their applications by July 18, 2025, no later than 4:59 p.m. Eastern Time. Notifications will go out to selected grantees by September 30, 2025.
| Key Grant Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Funds Available | \$52.5 million |
| Maximum Grant Per Group | \$750,000 |
| Application Deadline | July 18, 2025 – 4:59 PM ET |
| Award Notifications | By September 30, 2025 |
| Website to Apply | www.mentalhealth.va.gov/ssgfox-grants |
How to Apply for the Suicide Prevention Grant
The application process is detailed and must be followed precisely. Interested organizations can find everything they need—including eligibility guidelines, budget templates, and program criteria—on the VA’s official mental health grant portal.
Applicants must comply with all federal grant requirements, and proposals must be submitted on time to be considered.
Organizations encouraged to apply include:
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- Veteran-focused nonprofit groups
- Local governments with veteran outreach programs
- Tribal governments and coalitions
- Faith-based and community health organizations
Why Community Groups Are Key to Veteran Mental Health
One of the unique elements of the Staff Sgt. Fox Grant Program is its focus on local action. The VA recognizes that not all veterans use VA hospitals, especially those in remote areas, or those who may feel disconnected from institutional systems.
By investing in grassroots partnerships, the VA can extend its reach and deliver help where veterans already are—in their homes, neighborhoods, and community centers.
Help for Veterans in Crisis—24/7 Resources Available
While the grant application and distribution process unfolds, veterans in crisis still have access to immediate, confidential support via the Veterans Crisis Line:
- Call: 988, then press 1
- Text: 988
- Chat: VeteransCrisisLine.net
This service is open to all veterans, regardless of enrollment in VA healthcare.
Expanding the National Strategy on Veteran Suicide
This \$52.5 million expansion is one of the largest community-level efforts in the VA’s history to fight veteran suicide. The initiative builds on prior investments by scaling up outreach and putting more resources in the hands of local groups that understand the nuanced challenges facing today’s veterans.
By reaching veterans before they fall into crisis, the VA is taking a proactive approach—one that could save lives, strengthen communities, and honor the sacrifices of those who have served.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who can apply for the Staff Sgt. Fox Suicide Prevention Grant?
Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, tribal governments, and local government agencies that provide services to veterans.
2. What kind of services does the grant cover?
Funds can be used for mental health care, suicide prevention, emergency housing, transportation, and peer support programs for veterans.
3. How much can each organization receive?
Each selected group may receive up to \$750,000, depending on the scope of their program and needs.
4. What is the deadline to apply for the grant?
All applications must be submitted by July 18, 2025, before 4:59 PM Eastern Time.
5. How can veterans get immediate help while the grants are being processed?
Veterans can call or text 988, then press 1, or chat at VeteransCrisisLine.net for confidential 24/7 support.
