Veterans living in Texas’ most remote communities will soon have greater access to the care they deserve, thanks to a new federal investment aimed at removing one of the biggest barriers to health services: transportation. The Department of Veterans Affairs has awarded $233,000 to the Texas Veterans Commission to strengthen transportation assistance for Veterans who live in highly rural areas.

The funding comes through the Highly Rural Transportation Grants (HRTG) program, a nationwide initiative designed to ensure that Veterans in sparsely populated counties—those with fewer than seven people per square mile—can travel safely and reliably to VA and VA‑authorized medical facilities. For many rural Veterans, long distances, limited public transit, and geographic isolation make routine health appointments difficult to reach. This program helps close that gap.

“Transportation should never be the reason a Veteran misses needed care,” said Christopher Myhaver. “These grants will help us reach Veterans in remote areas and make sure they can get to their appointments safely, reliably and without added stress.”

This year, the VA awarded more than $6.1 million in HRTG funding nationwide. The grants support organizations that provide free transportation to essential medical services, including primary care, specialty visits, and mental health appointments. Since its launch in 2014, the program has distributed more than $46 million across 15 states, U.S. territories, and tribal lands—ensuring that Veterans in remote communities are not left behind.

For Texas Veterans, the new funding means expanded routes, more reliable transportation options, and a stronger network of support for those who rely on VA health care but face long travel distances.

Veterans living in highly rural areas can find transportation resources at: www.va.gov/resources/transportation-to-va-health-appointments-in-highly-rural-areas/

For additional information, contact Victoria McAdoo at Victoria.mcadoo@va.gov or 254‑778‑4811 ext. 144724.