The grant process:

The NGAM Veteran Support Grant has two stages of approval that typically takes between 45-60 days after receiving a completed and accurate application.  A reviewing committee will evaluate the application and determine what needs of the veteran the grant can meet.  That recommendation then goes before the board of directors for a final determination and distribution of funds.

Please be detailed when explaining your situation and need.  Identify exactly what support you need from the grant.  The more general your request, the less likely we will be able to support you.  If the committee cannot fully understand your need, your application could be denied.

Please provide the best possible picture of your financial situation.  Proof of income and all bills will be required to demonstrate your emergency need.  A budget sheet that includes your income and expenditures must match the evidence you provide for incoming and outgoing financials.

All quotes for work or repairs must have quotes from at least two different sources.  Dental work only requires one cost estimate.  Proof of vehicle insurance, property tax bill, current home value, monthly mortgage costs, lease agreements, or proof of registration could be required.

For all contractors or mechanics, proof of a state license and proof of insurance must be provided before any funds can be released.  These files can be sent from the contractor straight to the VSG committee at vsg@ngam.org.

The VSG does not pay the veteran directly.  The bills or estimates that you provide as evidence of your emergency need will be paid on your behalf from the VSG Committee.  The documents that you provide must be clear and legible and must include all statement details for payment.  The VSG typically does not pay for expenses such as groceries, childcare, or non-essential services; however, the inclusion of evidence for these bills could be used as supporting evidence of the veterans need.  If these needs are not being meet, the VSG committee could provide outside, additional resources as a means of assistance.

NGAM understands that every application is unique: by individual and by need.  The application below is designed to accommodate all cases, but we also realize that some areas might not apply to every specific veteran.  The best way to ensure that your application is complete is to closely follow the instructions and provide all needed documents.  A majority of all denied or delayed applications is a result of incomplete or inaccurate applications.  In general, it is always better to include more information than less.  It is the applicant’s responsibility to provide the most complete and accurate packet.  If you are unsure about a step in the process, ask for clarity.  If there are questions or gaps in your application, the committee will contact you for clarity, but it will delay your consideration.

The VSG Grant is designed to help with emergency needs, before the application is approved you could be asked about your ability to sustain better financial health after the award of the grant.

During this process, your identity and all personal information is always protected.  Even during the final recommendation process, no personal information is disclosed to the board or to anyone outside of the reviewing committee.  This is to protect your personal situation and to prevent name recognition or bias.

If you are awarded the grant. The VSG Committee could ask to use your likeness, photos of how the assistance was applied, and a testimonial of how the grant has benefited you and your family.