#United States #Washington, D.C. #Daughters of the American Revolution #Patti LaBelle #Women Veterans Fund

Daughters of the American Revolution Announces $650,000 in Grants for Women Veterans

On April 18, 2026, the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) will commemorate the contributions of women veterans with a significant announcement during their concert event, DAR Celebrates America 250! A Salute to Women Veterans. This year, the DAR will allocate an impressive $650,000 in grants to various organizations focused on supporting female veterans, showcasing their unwavering commitment to those who have served our nation.

This announcement is not only an opportunity to financially assist those in need but also to honor the profound sacrifices made by women in the military throughout history. The event will take place at DAR Constitution Hall at 7 p.m., featuring the illustrious vocalist Patti LaBelle, adding a special touch to the evening's festivities.

The grants will be distributed through the Vivian’s Outreach for Women Grant (VOW), aimed at addressing the needs of homeless and indigent women veterans. Since its inception in 2019, the DAR Grant Fund has contributed over $1.2 million to various organizations across the United States. This year, more than $400,000 will be allocated to ten worthy projects, each designed to empower and uplift women veterans in various capacities.

Grant Recipients Include:

• - Access Housing Inc. (Washington, D.C.): Funds will be used to build a dedicated housing wing for female veterans.
• - Hoosier Veterans Assistance Foundation (Indianapolis, Ind.): The newly established "HVAF Women Warrior Fund" will provide specialized services for female veterans.
• - New Mexico Veterans Integration Center (Albuquerque, N.M.): The EMPOWERher program will offer transitional housing, childcare, and educational opportunities in medical fields.
• - Homeless Emergency Funds (Clearwater, Fla.): Over 1,000 nights of safe housing, meals, and workforce development programs will be supported.
• - Gold Coast Veterans Foundation/Bay Shore Inn (Ventura, Calif.): This initiative will assist with emergency housing costs for veterans in need.
• - Several other organizations, including U.S. VETS Barbers Point, Coastal Women's Shelter, and Foundation for Women Warriors will also receive support.

In addition to the grants, DAR is thrilled to announce a remarkable contribution of $250,000 to the Military Women’s Memorial (MWM). This donation will support the MWM Education Center’s exhibit gallery, specifically the "Defending a New Nation" gallery, which will highlight the service of women from America’s founding through the 19th century. This brings the DAR's cumulative support for the MWM to over $1.35 million.

The event will also feature the VA Center for Women Veterans, which advocates for improved outcomes and access to VA benefits and services for women veterans. Attendees will have a chance to learn more about the available resources during the event.

A day full of celebratory activities will kick off with DAR's Birthday Party to America from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., where families can enjoy free activities, explore the historic headquarters, and learn about Revolutionary War history. The date holds great historical significance; on April 18, 1775, Paul Revere and his compatriots set off on their legendary ride to alert the militia of impending British troop movements, igniting the Revolutionary War.

Ginnie Sebastian Storage, the DAR President General, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, "We felt it was particularly moving to pair this concert with a date of such historical importance. It’s an honor to pay tribute to today's military women in conjunction with our Revolutionary War ancestors. We are excited to celebrate their sacrifices and contributions on April 18."

Conclusion

As the DAR embarks on its America 250 initiatives, the commitment to spotlight and support women veterans remains strong. Through various local events and activities, the DAR continues to inspire and educate communities while maintaining a focus on the historical legacy and achievements of both past and present female service members.

For more information about the concert and other events, visit the DAR website.