The Washington Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA) is proud to announce that on November 14, 2025, their Washington state SSG Fox community-based suicide prevention program was awarded $750,000 from the Federal VA Staff Sergeant Parker Fox Suicide Prevention Grant for their fourth year of programming. The Federal VA approved the team's application and awarded funds that will maintain the program moving forward for the next year.
Through this team, the agency is able to provide resources toward community-based suicide prevention efforts, helping Veterans and their families through outreach, peer support, services, and connections to resources close to home. Over the last year, the program has:
- Screened 97 individuals for suicide risk.
- Conducted 264 mental health assessments for tracking improvements and outcomes.
- Enrolled 40 new Onward Ops Sponsors to work with transitioning Service Members.
- Connected 56 transitioning Service Members with sponsors.
- Made 236 referrals to resources.
- Covered the cost of 796 alternative behavioral health recovery appointments.
- Provided 70 lethal means safety storage options.
- Provided $2,470 in food assistance and $400 in transportation assistance.
- Submitted 56 claims for benefits.
- Secured $1.5+ million in benefits compensation for Veterans.
The funds awarded through this year's grant will allow the team to continue providing connection and assistance to Veterans and families all across Washington State. For more information on the program and how it impacts the lives of Washington residents, check out the program's website and take a look at this short overview video.
From Program Manager Eric Burns:
This critical funding will allow us to continue providing life-saving suicide prevention and behavioral health support for Veterans, Service Members, and their families. It also ensures uninterrupted services through May 2027.
Through this grant cycle, WDVA’s SSG Fox Program will serve individuals across:
King, Kitsap, Snohomish, Island, Skagit, Okanogan, Chelan, Douglas, Kittitas, Grant, Ferry, Stevens, Pend Oreille, Lincoln, and Spokane counties.
WDVA is grateful for the continued trust and partnership of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and remain committed to expanding access to care throughout Washington State.
Click here for the full list of SSG Fox SPGP grantees operating in FY 2026.
Read the full news release from the Federal VA.
