Each November, as our nation observes Veterans Day, we are reminded that gratitude is not only expressed in words, but it must also be reflected in action. At the Texas A&M University’s Public Policy Research Institute (PPRI), our commitment to Texas veterans is grounded in this belief. Supporting veterans means listening closely, understanding needs clearly, and ensuring that public resources are directed where they can make the greatest impact.

The Texas Veterans Commission (TVC) commissioned PPRI to conduct statewide Veterans Needs Assessments in both 2020 and 2024, as mandated by the Texas Legislature (Texas Government Code §434.017). Led by Senior Research Scientist Dr. Nandita Chaudhuri, these studies employed rigorous multi-method social science approaches, including statewide surveys with more than 15,000 respondents, organizational needs assessments, asset mapping, and seventeen focus groups with veterans and their families across the state.

Across both assessments, one message remains consistent: healthcare support, including clinical counseling, mental health services, and integrative therapies, continues to be the most urgent and often unmet need among Texas veterans. Many veterans also reported that they are unsure how to access available benefits or where to seek support, highlighting the need not only for expanded services, but also for stronger outreach, navigation assistance, and clear communication.

Evidence-based research plays a critical role in shaping how TVC allocates Funds for Veterans Assistance (FVA) grants and strengthens the statewide network of support organizations. By identifying needs and barriers across diverse regions and service contexts, PPRI’s work helps ensure that state resources are aligned with the real experiences and priorities of Texas veterans and their families.

This season of gratitude is therefore also a season of responsibility, an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to those who have served. At PPRI, we are honored to contribute research that informs policy decisions, strengthens service systems, and supports the wellbeing of veterans across Texas.

Learn more:
Project Overview: https://ppri.tamu.edu/portfolio-items/tvc-needs-assessment/
Story: https://artsci.tamu.edu/news/2024/11/assessing-service-needs-and-barriers-for-texas-veterans.html
Story: https://liberalarts.tamu.edu/blog/texas-am-researcher-helps-improve-veteran-support-in-texas/