VA Awards $849K for Pennsylvania Adaptive Sports – Erie News Now

VA Awards $849K for Pennsylvania Adaptive Sports  Erie News Now

Pennsylvania veterans with disabilities will benefit from $849,309 in federal grants awarded to local organizations providing adaptive sports programs, enhancing physical and mental wellness through activities like archery, cycling, and Pennsylvania veterans with disabilities will have expanded opportunities to participate in adaptive sports programs thanks to new federal funding announced by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. The VA has awarded $849,309 in grants to four community-based organizations across Pennsylvania that provide adaptive sports and recreational programs for veterans and active-duty service members. The funding is part of a nationwide investment totaling $16 million distributed to 91 organizations that support adaptive sports initiatives. The grants are designed to help veterans improve their physical and mental well-being while building independence and social connections through recreational and competitive activities.

Adaptive sports programs offer a wide range of opportunities, including activities such as archery, skiing, cycling, wheelchair softball, hunting, fishing and other recreational pursuits. Program organizers say these activities help veterans rehabilitate through recreation while encouraging an active and healthy lifestyle. “Through these grants, we're strengthening access to adaptive sports programs that make a meaningful difference in the lives of Pennsylvania Veterans,” said John A. Gennaro, director of the Erie VA Medical Center. “This support expands opportunities for Veterans with disabilities to stay active, build confidence, and connect with others through recreation and