From Housing to Healing: VyStar Foundation Supports Veteran Services Across the Northeast Florida

VyStar Foundation is proud to recognize four outstanding nonprofit organizations in North Florida for their unwavering commitment to supporting military members, veterans, and their families. As part of VyStar Foundation’s $217,000 investment in 2025 to support veteran services, each of these organizations in North Florida received funding to expand their vital programs addressing food and housing, workforce development, and mental health. By investing in these areas, VyStar Foundation aims to create lasting, positive change for those who have selflessly served our nation.

“At VyStar Foundation, we believe that honoring our military means turning gratitude into meaningful action,” said Patricia McElroy, President of VyStar Foundation. “These grants represent our deep appreciation and commitment to improving the lives of service members, veterans, and their families. By working alongside our nonprofit partners, we’re helping to build communities where those who served can thrive.”

The recipients were recognized on the field prior to the first pitch during ‘Military Appreciation Night’ at the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp game on August 14.

2025 Northeast Florida Military Grant Recipients and Program Highlights:

• Catholic Charities Bureau: Supportive Services for Veteran Families – Offering emergency financial aid and case management to prevent homelessness among low-income veterans.
• First Coast Honor Flight – Doubling the number of veterans flown to Washington, D.C., by increasing flight capacity from 44 to 88 veterans annually.
• Northeast Florida Women Veterans: HerBIZ – Empowering women veterans through entrepreneurship and financial stability programs.
• Operation Lifeline: Spring Street Sanctuary – Launching Clay County’s first Permanent Supportive Housing program for veterans.

VyStar Foundation supports nonprofit organizations in Georgia, North and Central Florida. Since 2023, the Foundation has awarded $1.3 million in grants to local organizations, reinforcing its mission to build strong communities and improve lives through strategic philanthropy.

Grants through VyStar Foundation are available to 501(c)(3) organizations whose purpose and mission align with the Foundation’s strategic giving pillars:

• Military: Ensuring active military members, veterans and their families receive the social services they need and the recognition they deserve.
• Youth: Empowering youth by providing equitable access to creative learning environments.
• Community Building: Cultivating financially strong, culturally vibrant, and interconnected communities.

To learn more about VyStar Foundation and upcoming grant information sessions, visit vystarfoundation.org.