Federal Grant Award Summary

The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) awarded $150,000 to the Texas General Land Office on October 1, 2025, under the "Payments to States for Programs to Promote the Hiring and Retention of Nurses at State Veterans Homes" program (CFDA 64.053). This represents the federal share of a $300,000 total project, with the State of Texas contributing $150,000 in matching funds. The award funds a comprehensive workforce development program designed to address nursing shortages at state veterans homes across Texas, including facilities in Austin, Amarillo, El Paso, Temple, Bonham, Houston, Floresville, Big Spring, and McAllen.

The program delivers multiple incentive-based products and services to recruit and retain nursing personnel. These include sign-on bonuses for newly hired nursing staff upon completion of 90 days of employment; retention bonuses awarded after one year of service; referral bonuses provided to existing employees who successfully refer candidates hired and retained for 90 days; and education reimbursements tied to employment agreements requiring one year of continued service following degree completion or final reimbursement. The award period extends through September 30, 2026, and additionally supports quarterly recognition and awards programs and quarterly uniform supply for participants in the nursing workforce initiative.