Proposed Project Services
The General Assistance Program (GAP) Project will offer emergency financial assistance to Beneficiaries who face a current financial barrier to employment and overall quality of life in the State of Texas and meet the eligibility requirements listed below.
The GAP Project will have two separate avenues of service and support: 1) “Work Ready” Beneficiaries will be provided financial assistance to remove financial barriers to employment. Since Valor Ranch, Inc. is unable to anticipate or foresee every circumstance that may cause a barrier to employment, each Beneficiary’s situation will be evaluated to ensure sufficient justification and that funds will only be expended on allowable assistance. After receiving financial assistance, the Project Beneficiary will be connected with one of Valor Ranch, Inc.’s existing partners who offer training and employment programs for job placement and/or training. 2) “Service Connected” and elderly veterans will be provided justifiable and allowable emergency financial assistance to assist in the removal of financial barriers to improve the overall quality of life. Also, the Beneficiaries processed through this avenue will be assessed to identify any home modifications, repairs, VA Claim support, career assistance, job interviewing skills or resume, mental health assistance, and all other assistance needed. If a need is identified, Beneficiaries will be referred to Combined Arms for additional services.
Emergency financial assistance offered through the GAP Project may include:
• One-time rental assistance, mortgage payments; and/or
• One-time, auto repairs, auto loan payments, auto insurance payment; and/or
• One-time utility payments (electric, gas, water); and/or
• One-time cell phone or internet payments; and/or
• One-time Books or tuition assistance.
Financial assistance can be provided in one or more of these areas, but the total assistance to any one Beneficiary will not exceed $2,000.00. The GAP Project will provide emergency financial assistance only after all the eligibility criteria is met and supporting documentation has been collected (i.e., lease, mortgage statement, auto title, utility bill, Driver’s License, DD-214, and proof of income).
Thus far, Valor Ranch, Inc. and Keri Wilcox have served approximately 1,900 Veterans in various capacities, and more than 80% of those Veterans helped have needed financial assistance to address barriers to employment or quality of life. The needs most frequently presented by these Veterans include but not limited to:
• Housing
• Transportation Costs
• Tuition and Books
• Utilities, Cell Phone, Internet
How Beneficiaries will access and/or be provided with Project services.
Beneficiaries will be able to access the GAP with a simple phone call. Once the Beneficiary has contacted the GAP Project staff, he/she will be pre-screened for eligibility. Once pre-screened eligibility is determined he/she will receive an email with instructions regarding documents needed, application as well as a list of resources. Once the Beneficiary has submitted all supporting documents via email, he/she will be scheduled for a Zoom, Teams, or Google Meet intake with the GAP Counselor.
Upon meeting with the Beneficiary, the GAP Counselor will verify eligibility through the required supporting documents (i.e. mortgage, lease, auto title/bill, utility bill, DD-214, Driver’s License and proof of income), while assessing the individual needs of the Veteran. After the Beneficiary’s barriers and needs have been identified and addressed, and the Beneficiary needs additional services not offered through Valor Ranch, Inc., the GAP counselor will refer him/her to outside sources for appropriate services offered through our community partners.
Upon completion of the initial visit with the Beneficiary, if approved, the GAP Counselor will proceed in processing the required emergency financial assistance. During this process the Beneficiary is required to attend a no cost one-hour, online Budget class that addresses the financial and emotional aspect of financial independence. Once the Project Manager issues the check, it will be sent to accounting for processing. When the check is received from accounting it will be delivered to the vendor or sent with a tracking number, delivery receipt, and a signature requirement. This process will take 5 – 7 business days.
Attending a financial literacy class can offer veterans a range of financial and emotional benefits
Financial Benefits: Veterans can improve their financial literacy by learning essential budgeting skills, which help them manage their finances more effectively and make informed decisions. The class can also provide practical strategies for reducing debt, which is crucial for financial stability. Additionally, veterans can gain insights into saving money and making smart investments for their future. Learning how to protect their identity and VA benefits from fraud can safeguard their financial resources.
Emotional Benefits: Gaining control over finances can significantly reduce stress and anxiety, leading to better mental health. Understanding and managing personal finances can boost veterans’ confidence in their ability to handle financial challenges. Learning budgeting skills can empower veterans to take control of their financial future, fostering a sense of independence and self-reliance. Attending classes with fellow veterans can provide a sense of camaraderie and support, enhancing emotional well-being.
Thank you for considering our organization. We are eager to work together to provide essential services to veterans, and we are confident that your support will make a significant difference in our mission.
