WAUNAKEE—The Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA) Secretary-designee James Bond presented Jennifer Sluga, psychotherapist and owner of Trauma Life Consulting in Waunakee, with $150,000 in grants for emergency and ancillary veteran mental health care.
“I’m thankful to organizations like Trauma Life Consulting who are making veteran mental health care a priority,” said Secretary-designee Bond. “Veterans chose a life of service, and when they need a hand, we owe it to be there for them. But we cannot do this without local partners across the state. This collective effort saves veteran lives and ensures a full and supportive environment in the transition to civilian life.”
Jennifer Sluga is a Veteran, psychotherapist, trainer, and consultant specializing in complex trauma. She dedicates time to training clinicians, community members, and advocates on issues related to sexual violence, substance abuse, and military trauma. She is also an approved community care provider for the federal VA. The grants will fund mental health services for veterans at Trauma Life Consulting, including individual and group counseling sessions, as well as whole health focused activities and retreats.
“My goal is to educate and connect veterans as many of us joined for the sense of ‘brotherhood’ and crave connection long after we get out of the service,” said Sluga. “I believe this is why many who serve continue to go into community service positions and continue to make a difference. I would like anyone who needs a reminder to know that you are part of something bigger than yourself. Whether you are still serving or haven’t been in a uniform for more than 40 years, no one is left behind or forgotten. I look forward to using the grant funds to prove this.”
See check presentation Facebook post here.
Trauma Life Consulting was one of seven organizations that received grants for mental health care for veterans across the state of Wisconsin. WDVA is now accepting applications for three Veteran Mental Health Grants—the Emergency Crisis Mental Health Treatment Program Grant, the Veteran Mental Health Ancillary Treatment Program Grant, and the Veterans Mental Health Community-Based Organization Grant. These grants are part of Gov. Evers’ $10 million investment in mental health and services, funded through the American Rescue Plan Act.
All further questions about the grant application process should be directed to the DVA Grants Unit at vetsbenefitsgrants@dva.wisconsin.gov. The applications for the second round of ARPA-funded grants are due by 11:59 p.m. on Thursday, January 11, 2024.
For additional information on the grants, including evaluation criteria, application materials, and tips for applying, please see theDVA Grants Page.
