By: Maria-Paula
Virginia’s U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine have announced significant federal funding aimed at strengthening mental health services for veterans across Virginia and neighboring regions. The grants, awarded through federal veteran support programs, will bolster community organizations that provide suicide prevention, counseling, outreach, and transition assistance for former service members.
Among the newly funded initiatives, organizations across Virginia will expand services to Clarke, Culpeper, Fairfax, Fauquier, Frederick, Loudoun, Prince William, Rappahannock, Spotsylvania, Stafford, and Warren counties. In addition, Westcare Kentucky has been awarded $512,053 to support veterans in the Southwest Virginia counties of Buchanan, Dickenson, and Wise.
Senators Warner and Kaine, both longtime advocates for veterans’ mental health, emphasized the urgent need for accessible support systems, particularly as communities continue to confront the rising toll of veteran suicide. Their ongoing legislative and oversight work has focused on strengthening VA services, expanding housing protections, and improving transitional programs for service members returning to civilian life.
Sen. Warner has regularly met with leadership at the Richmond VA Medical Center and the Hampton VA Medical Center, focusing on suicide prevention and service quality. Sen. Kaine on the other hand has led efforts to combat housing discrimination against veterans, supported legislation addressing veteran homelessness, and spoken out against federal cuts that he argues undermine VA operations and harm veteran communities.
The senators underscored that the new funding is a critical step toward ensuring veterans in both urban and rural areas have access to life-saving care and continued support.
“With these investments, we’re making sure more veterans get the help they deserve,” read a joint statement from the senators. “Our veterans put their lives on the line for us. We must do everything in our power to support them.”
As the grants roll out, community partners across Virginia and neighboring states are expected to expand outreach, clinical services, and crisis intervention programs in an effort to reduce suicide rates and improve overall well-being among the region’s veteran population.
