JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Millions of dollars has just been announced to help disabled veterans and service members around the country, including right here in Florida. Secretary of Veterans Affairs Robert McDonald announced today $7.8 million in grants for adaptive sports programs.
The grants will be awarded to 90 national, regional and community programs nationwide. Those awarded grants may use these funds for planning, developing, managing and implementing adaptive sports for eligible veterans and service members of the Armed Forces.
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Two community-based programs in Florida were awarded grants. Veterans Ocean Adventures in Cutler Bay is receiving $48.230 for scuba diving.
The second Florida recipient is Wounded Warriors in Action Foundation in Apollo Beach. This organization is receiving $40,875 for hunting, fresh and salt water fishing and archery.
National organizations being awarded grants from the Department of Veterans Affairs prepare high-level athletes for Paralympic competition like cycling, swimming, and a wide variety of other sports.
"We are honored to partner with so many organizations across the country to provide adaptive sports programs where our veterans live," said VA Secretary McDonald. "Adaptive sports gives freedom to those who have fought for our freedom, and empowers Veterans to believe in themselves and to let go of what others may see as limitations."
The VA says approximately 10,000 veterans and service members are expected to benefit from these grants in all 50 states, plus the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico.
To see the full list of national, organizations, regional partners and community based programs receiving grants, go here. For more information on the VA's adaptive sports program, go here.