The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has launched a $42 million grant initiative aimed at helping homeless Veterans and those at risk of homelessness gain access to vital legal services. The funding, provided through the Legal Services for Veterans (LSV) Grant Program, will support organizations across the country in offering legal aid related to housing, benefits, family matters, and minor criminal cases.
Each eligible organization can apply for up to $500,000, with the funding intended to cover two years beginning October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2027. The application deadline has been set for 4 p.m. ET on July 7, 2025. The goal of the initiative is to address legal issues that often serve as barriers to housing and employment among Veterans.
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Legal Services at the Core of Homelessness Prevention
The VA’s new funding strategy highlights the growing role of legal support in preventing homelessness. According to federal data, over 35,000 Veterans were experiencing homelessness on a single night in 2024. While shelter and transitional housing programs exist, many Veterans remain stuck due to unresolved legal issues such as eviction proceedings, suspended licenses, or outstanding fines.
By helping Veterans resolve these issues, the grant-funded legal services are expected to support long-term stability. The VA believes that enabling access to justice is a critical tool to reduce housing insecurity and foster reintegration into society.
Services Covered Under the Grant
Grant recipients will be expected to offer legal services across a broad spectrum of issues that contribute to housing loss. These include:
- Eviction prevention and landlord-tenant disputes
- Legal support for child custody, support, or estate planning
- Representation in criminal or traffic cases
- Assistance with VA disability compensation and benefit claims
Such support is designed to help Veterans maintain access to housing, employment, healthcare, and financial benefits.
Breakdown of Funding and Grant Scope
The VA has issued detailed guidance on the structure of the program, funding limits, and timeframes. The table below summarizes key aspects:
| Detail | Specification |
|---|---|
| Total Funds Available | $42 million |
| Max Grant per Organization | $500,000 |
| Application Deadline | July 7, 2025, 4:00 p.m. ET |
| Grant Period | Oct 1, 2025 – Sept 30, 2027 |
| Administered By | U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs |
Who Can Apply and What Is Required
Eligible applicants include nonprofit legal service organizations, law school clinics, tribal entities, and public legal aid agencies. Organizations must demonstrate the ability to manage funds responsibly and provide services tailored to Veterans’ legal needs. They should also be capable of tracking measurable outcomes and reporting service data to the VA.
Key requirements include registration in SAM.gov, a valid DUNS or UEI number, and full compliance with the terms outlined in the Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO).
Broader Impact and Long-Term Goals
This legal services grant program is part of a broader federal push to eliminate Veteran homelessness. By directly addressing the legal causes of housing instability, the initiative aims to improve economic security, family stability, and access to healthcare for thousands of Veterans across the United States.
Interested organizations can learn more or request additional details by contacting the VA at lsv@va.gov.
