VA announces $16M in disabled Veterans’ adaptive sports grants

WASHINGTON — The Department of Veterans Affairs today announced the availability of $16 million in grants for national, regional and community-based organizations that provide adaptive sports programs for Veterans and service members with disabilities. Adaptive sports programs offer Veterans supportive and recreational opportunities to improve their independence, well-being and quality of life. These programs include a variety of competitive and leisure activities — such as archery, skiing, cycling, wheelchair softball, hunting, fishing and many others — that enable Veterans to rehabilitate through recreation and encourage an active and healthy lifestyle. Since the establishment of the Adaptive Sports Grant Program, VA has awarded over $160 million to expand access to adaptive sports nationwide. “Adaptive sports can be life-changing for disabled Veterans, improving strength and facilitating healing while building resilience through competition, camaraderie and achievement,” said VA Secretary Doug Collins. “These grants will create vital access to local adaptive sports programs to help Veterans stay active, engaged and connected with their communities and fellow Veterans.” Eligible organizations have until May 13, 2026, to apply. For details about eligibility, priorities and application requirements for this year’s Adaptive Sports Grant Program, visit https://grants.gov/search-results-detail/360391. For more information on the Adaptive Sports Grant Program and awardees, visit www.va.gov/adaptivesports and follow @Sports4Vets on social media. The grant is just one of many ways the second Trump Administration is making VA work better for Veterans. For example, VA has: Enrolled more than 100,000 new Veterans in VA health care in 2026. Opened 34 new VA health care facilities since Jan. 20, 2025, Opening 34 new VA health care facilities expanding health care access for Veterans around the country. Reduced the backlog of Veterans waiting for VA benefits by 67% since Jan. 20, 2025, after it increased 24% during the Biden Administration. Completed 82,083,918 direct care appointments in FY2025, up 4.1% from FY2024. Offered Veterans more than 2.3 million appointments outside of normal operating hours, giving Veterans more timely and convenient options for care. Permanently housed 51,936 homeless Veterans across the country in FY2025, the highest total in seven years.