Public Service Announcement: Dental Program for Florida Veterans Florida Veterans Foundation Continues Statewide Veterans Dental Program in 2026

TALLAHASSEE, FLA. – The Florida Veterans Foundation (FVF) is pleased to announce the continuation of its Veterans Dental Program in 2026, thanks to renewed funding from the Florida Legislature and approval by Governor Ron Desantis. This crucial initiative expands access to vital dental care services for eligible veterans across the state. 

Under this program, the FVF will continue to manage a comprehensive network of selected 501(c)(3) organizations to deliver a full range of dental services to qualified veterans. The program emphasizes the importance of oral health and seeks to address the gap in dental care services for veterans not fully covered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. 

"We are honored to continue this initiative, which directly impacts the lives of many veterans across Florida. Our goal remains to ensure that every eligible veteran has access to the dental care they need, improving their quality of life and overall health," says Dr. Pia S. Woodley, DBA, Chair, Florida Veterans Foundation. 

Key features of the Veterans Dental Program for 2026 include: 

• Eligibility and Enrollment: The program is open to Florida residents who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces or National Guard and meet specific criteria, including income level and service status.  

• Must have been issued a DD-214, NGB 22, or Certificate of Discharge. 

• Eligible veterans must reside in Florida. 

• Must be at 300% Poverty Level or below as defined by the federal government at the time of their application. 

• Must be less than 100% service-connected disabled. 

• Veterans must not have a direct service-connected injury impacting their oral health. 

• Statewide Dental Network: FVF will continue partnering with 501(c)(3) organizations across Florida to ensure services are accessible to veterans in all regions. 

• Comprehensive Care: Services will include routine exams, cleanings, fillings, and other necessary dental procedures. 

• Outreach and Education: FVF will continue working closely with veteran service organizations and community partners to promote the program and educate veterans about their eligibility. 

Opportunities for Statewide Veteran-Centric Organizations: 

Statewide veteran-centric organizations interested in participating in the program can learn more and apply online at helpflvets.org/dentalprogram. Organizations applying to be a Grantee will be required to: 

• Submit their application to the Florida Veterans Foundation (“FVF”) according to the online instructions. 

• Demonstrate that they can facilitate dental care services in accordance with the rules within the Statement of Work. 

Grantee Workplan Requirements: 

Administering the Program: The Veterans Dental Grant Program Grantees will be required to use awarded grant funds according to the requirements set forth by the FVF by: 

• Ensuring verification of a veteran's status by reviewing their DD-214, NGB 22, or Military Discharge documents or applicable U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs forms. 

• Utilizing awarded funds based on the requirements of the FVF-provided contract. 

• Tracking the dental services provided to veterans by:  

• Reporting the number of veterans served and other demographics. 

• Tracking Program expenses. 

• Maintain accountability of services  for Quality Assurance. 

• Ensure the protection of veteran information and maintain HIPAA compliance to protect PHI. 

For more information, please contact us at fvf@fdva.fl.gov. 

The Florida Veterans Foundation is dedicated to providing essential services and support to veterans throughout Florida. Through programs like the Veterans Dental Program, the FVF aims to improve the quality of life for those who have served our nation.