Mayor Michelle Wu, alongside the City's Office of Veterans' Services, has rolled out the Bridge the Gap Mini-Grant Program, a fresh initiative aimed at aiding veterans and their families in Boston. Nonprofits, which play a pivotal role in supporting veterans, are in line to receive these grants, specifically for addressing issues such as housing, transportation, health care, legal help, and educational services. An overall fund of $200,000 is set aside, with maximum individual grants capping at $9,999.

"In Boston we’re working to expand our reach to our veterans by building relationships with local organizations providing crucial services," Wu stated. The move is intended to funnel more resources to critical nonprofits, ensuring that veterans secure the benefits they're owed. The Office of Veterans' Services underlines its commitment to innovative strategies for improving veterans' lives and those of their families, said Veterans’ Services Commissioner Robert Santiago, in a message put forth by the City of Boston official news portal.

Those seeking funding have until May 24, 2024, to submit their paperwork. Eligibility requirements are strict: organizations must be nonprofit 501(c)(3) tax-exempt or have a qualified fiscal sponsor. They must show commitment to enhancing the lives of Boston's veterans and understand their diverse needs. Additionally, they must be financially stable, follow laws, and provide data on the fund's impact.

Announcements for the grant recipients are expected by the end of June, with the hopes that these awards will cast a wider safety net for the city's veterans. The specifics of the assistance programs and services offered by the Office of Veterans' Services can be accessed on the city's website, Mayor Wu's office disclosed. To learn more or to apply for the grant, interested parties can visit boston.gov.