Home Base Florida received the great news that it would receive a $2M allocation in state funding for Fiscal Year 2025. This funding represents a $500,000 boost in funding over Fiscal Year 2024 and will play a pivotal role in sustaining and expanding Home Base Florida’s critical clinical programs. The allocation was sponsored by Naples-based Florida House of Representative Lauren Melo and Tampa-based US Army Veteran and amputee Florida State Senator Jay Collins.

“The State of Florida is committed to upholding the promises made to the men and women in our military and working with partners like Home Base allows the state to ensure everyone receives the care they deserve,” said Representative Melo. Together, we can do our part to make sure Florida is the best place to live for our active-duty and former military families.”

The extra funding will support Home Base’s expansion into Pensacola, Florida’s Outpatient Clinical Services, Warrior Health and Fitness, and the launch of Traumatic Brain Injury Services. These invaluable resources will give Florida Veterans and their Families access to free mental and behavioral healthcare, significantly enhancing their opportunities to receive the support they need. 

“The State of Florida is steadfast in sharing Home Base’s message to improve Veteran and Service Member lives by reintegrating these heroes with dignity and purpose,” said Senator Collins. “I am excited to see the results of this $2M for the expansion of their great works within the Veteran Community fostering growth now and in years to come.”

Partnerships Make Care Possible 

Our clinical programs are made possible through collaborations with our many partners such as David Lawrence Centers and Lee Health in Southwest Florida. These partnerships provide veterans’ access to free outpatient therapy, providing crucial mental health support. The funding will, in part, continue to support those services. The Warrior Health and Fitness Program, which provides a free, comprehensive 90-day physical fitness and wellness experience tailored to the personal health needs of Veterans and their Family Members, is made possible in Southwest Florida through partnerships with the YMCA of Collier and Florida Gulf Coast University, and in Tampa through Tampa General Hospital.

TBI Programs Expands Into Tampa

Expanding on that model, this funding we will expand clinical programming in our newest locations in Tampa and the Panhandle, where we have been providing our flagship Warrior Health and Fitness program. The existing collaboration with Tampa General Hospital will soon now include a Traumatic Brain Injury Program, which will provide specialized care for military personnel and Veterans who have experienced Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). The comprehensive program combines evaluation, integrated treatment, and care coordination for Active-Duty Members and Veterans with mild to moderate TBIs. By leveraging the expertise of a multi-disciplinary team at Tampa General, we are dedicated to delivering the highest level of care and support to individuals affected by TBIs, ensuring their well-being and successful recovery. 

Outpatient Clinical Care Coming to the Panhandle

In Pensacola, Home Base will work with the team at Lakeview Center to bring high-quality, evidence-based behavioral health services to Veterans in the region.

“This funding from the state of Florida is a testament to its commitment to the well-being of our Veterans and their Families,” said Senior Director of Home Base Florida Armando Hernandez. “It empowers Home Base to expand our evidence-based programs and reach more Veterans in need, ensuring they receive the care and support they deserve.”

While Home Base Florida celebrates the state funding allocation, it is crucial to emphasize that there is still work to be done. Although this state funding represents a significant step forward, Home Base relies on ongoing community support from a grateful nation to sustain its vital programs. Continued fundraising efforts are essential to ensure that Home Base can provide comprehensive care and support to all those who need it. 

With this additional state funding and ongoing community support, Home Base Florida will continue to expand its programs, provide vital care, and make a lasting difference in the lives of those who have served to our protect our freedoms. To donate to our Florida expansion, click here.