#None #Housing Stability #Cigna Foundation #Veteran Mental Health

Cigna Group Foundation Supporting Veterans with New Grant Program

The Cigna Group Foundation has taken a significant step forward by launching its 2026 grant program, aimed specifically at enhancing mental health support for veterans. This initiative is part of the foundation's broader mission to address critical health challenges faced by communities and is designed to provide essential resources for veterans in need.

Grant Overview

The newly opened grant cycle looks to fund nonprofit organizations that focus on improving veterans’ mental health through various means, particularly by ensuring stable housing. Organizations serving veterans in ten specific states are encouraged to submit their applications now until July 9, 2026, at 5 PM ET. The states involved include Arizona, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Missouri, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and Texas, marking a focused effort to address veteran needs in these regions.

Eligible nonprofits can apply for a one-year grant totaling $150,000, specifically aimed at initiatives that enhance housing stability and provide necessary support services. The foundation emphasizes that improving access to stable housing allows veterans to thrive mentally and emotionally, therefore becoming a cornerstone of this grant initiative.

Commitment to Veterans' Mental Health

Cigna's commitment to veterans is reflected in its substantial three-year plan, pledging $9 million towards improving mental health for this underserved demographic. The foundation recognizes that nearly 40,000 veterans are homeless on any given night, with an additional 1.5 million at risk of homelessness. By equipping organizations with the necessary funds, the foundation aims to tackle these pressing issues head-on.

Ellie Polack, the president of The Cigna Group Foundation, shared her insights on the program, stating, “When veterans have access to stable housing and the right community-based supports, they are better positioned to thrive. We are proud to partner with trusted local organizations to help connect veterans to housing solutions that support their mental well-being and long-term stability.”

Key Goals of the Program

All grant applications are to align with at least one of the main focus areas:

• - Increase Permanent Housing: Expand the availability of permanent housing options for veterans in need.
• - Enhance Affordability: Provide financial aid for veterans through rental or mortgage assistance, and related financial supports where applicable.
• - Wraparound Services: Tailor services like case management, counseling, employment assistance, legal aid, and transportation to facilitate smoother transitions for veterans from shelters to stable housing.

Success Stories from Past Initiatives

The success of previous programs serves as a testament to the positive impact such initiatives can have. Organizations like the Gary Sinise Foundation and the Veterans Community Project have made headway by providing tailored support to veterans. For example, the Gary Sinise Foundation’s R.I.S.E. program constructs mortgage-free, specifically adapted homes for severely wounded veterans, while the Veterans Community Project offers individualized solutions, enabling veterans to reclaim stability in their lives.

As shared by Anthony, a veteran receiving assistance from the Veterans Community Project in Missouri, “Stability would be the word for it. Before, nothing was guaranteed — I didn't know what was coming tomorrow. Now, I have stability.” This sentiment echoes the importance of programs like Cigna's in fostering a stable environment for veterans.

How to Apply

Nonprofits interested in applying for the grant can find detailed information, eligibility criteria, and application guidelines on The Cigna Group Foundation's official website. Those that qualify are encouraged to act swiftly, as the deadline is fast approaching.

Through this grant program, The Cigna Group Foundation aims to not just provide funds but to foster a network of support for veterans that can lead to lasting change and improved well-being in their lives.

About The Cigna Group Foundation

The Cigna Group Foundation is a private entity funded by The Cigna Group and its subsidiaries, focusing on addressing urgent health challenges. In addition to supporting mental health initiatives, the foundation engages in humanitarian aid and enhances employees' participation through volunteer and charitable matching programs. Learn more about their initiatives at www.thecignagroup.com/community.