A small business loan can help avoid “Deadly Gap” as veterans transition to civilian life.
By Amy Hereford, as published in the Dallas Morning News
Dallas is home to about a quarter of the 1.4 million veterans who live in Texas. On Veterans Day, we extend our gratitude for the courage, sacrifice and dedication of those who served in our armed forces. Yet, too often, we fail to recognize some of the critical needs veterans have when they return home.
Maybe most notably, is access to capital so that these service men and women can build businesses and secure financial independence.
Lack of access to funding is a challenge many Americans face, but for many veterans struggling with PTSD and other mental health challenges, it can be a matter of life and death. In the midst of a new administration taking office, policymakers will have a pivotal opportunity to introduce measures that truly support veterans. It’s time for them to see that a clear path to capital remains a very daunting challenge for many veterans living in what’s called the “Deadly Gap.” But there are ways we can actually help.
Read the full editorial from LiftFund CEO, Amy Hereford, in the Dallas Morning News here.
As a nonprofit microlender, we’ve worked with larger financial institutions and donors to provide over $50 million in loans for veteran business owners. In fact, 15% of our entire loan portfolio has been dedicated to veteran loans since its inception. For more information about our veteran loan program and resources for the veteran small business community, check out our Heroes Program. Or contact us to become a partner and make a real impact in the veteran community.
