federal grant Archives - South Carolina FYI

In an effort to combat Veteran homelessness, the Department of Veteran Affairs has offered a $6.3 million donation. This money is geared toward four non-profits whose main goal is to aid Veterans who are homeless. They take the form of grants for low-income Veteran families across SC and GA.

The pandemic of homeless Veterans has been a nationwide issue for several generations. This grant is hoping to quickly reduce the number of Veterans who are homeless, while also preventing any further from becoming homeless.

“This funding supports our continued efforts to work with the community to end Veteran homelessness, a top priority for the Department of Veterans Affairs and our hospital,” explained Charleston VAMC Director Scott Isaacks.

The program overseeing the project is the Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF). They operate to serve over 105,156 individuals, which includes 70,524 Veterans and 20,608 children across the nation. As a rule of thumb, the organization acts to aid Veterans with housing solutions, health care, community employment services, and other required supports.

For more information regarding the SSVF and their plans for the SC and GA grant, visit their website.

In an effort to improve the safety and efficiency of the Columbia Metropolitan Airport, Secretary of Transportation Elaine L. Chao announced some improvements are in the works. With the help of a federal grant of $2,744,932, the Columbia hub will see more than just a fresh coat of paint.

This year Trump delegated $10 billion in grants for improving aviation and airports across the U.S. As coronavirus has changed the way many are traveling, airports and the travel industry have taken a hard hit. This money simultaneously acts as a relief effort for those of the industry struggling.

The funding comes directly from “the U.S. Treasury Grand Fund to prevent, prepare for, and respond to the impacts of the COVID-19 public health emergency,” the Federal Aviation Administration explains in their frequently asked questions. Titled the “CARES Act”, the abbreviation stands for Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security.

Columbia will implement this money through improvements made around the terminal building. Beginning with in-line bagging systems, new escalators, and baggage carousels, the changes will help streamline the traveling experience.