What Is the Disabled Veterans National Foundation?
The Disabled Veterans National Foundation (DVNF) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 2007 that provides financial assistance, food aid, and housing support to disabled and at-risk veterans. Headquartered in Lanham, Maryland, DVNF operates programs including Grants to Provide Stability (GPS), Homeless to Housing (H2H), and the Veterans Food Assistance Program (VFAP). It is not a government agency and is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Charity watchdog groups have given DVNF low ratings for financial transparency and program spending.
Quick Facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Benefit | Emergency financial grants, housing assistance, food aid, comfort kits |
| Eligibility | Disabled and at-risk U.S. veterans |
| Application | Online via dvnf.org or through partner organizations |
| Processing Time | Varies by program; typically 2–6 weeks |
| Official Agency | Private nonprofit (not VA-affiliated) |
| Required Forms | Program-specific application; DD-214 may be required |
| Updated For | 2026 |
DVNF Programs and Services
DVNF operates several direct-assistance programs for veterans. The organization’s core programs include emergency financial grants, housing transition support, food assistance, comfort kits, and a national job board.
Grants to Provide Stability (GPS)
The GPS program provides emergency financial assistance of up to $1,000 to veterans experiencing temporary financial setbacks. Funds can be used for rent or mortgage payments and essential utilities such as water or electricity. In a recent program year, GPS provided over $240,000 in emergency grants to 306 veterans.
Homeless to Housing (H2H)
The H2H program provides financial assistance of up to $2,000 (not guaranteed) to disabled and at-risk veterans transitioning out of homelessness into permanent housing. Funds cover essential costs such as security deposits and initial rent payments, with essential household items included.
Veterans Food Assistance Program (VFAP)
VFAP delivers grocery shipments nationwide through Walmart’s online shopping and delivery system. The program provides emergency food assistance to eligible veterans experiencing financial hardship.
Comfort Kits and Grab N’ Go Events
DVNF distributes Comfort Kits containing essential personal care items to homeless and in-need veterans at events across the country. These events are often held in partnership with VA medical centers and corporate sponsors.
Mission Possible and National Job Board
Mission Possible is a free online platform for resilience, stress management, and mental health support. The DVNF National Job Board (jobs.dvnf.org) connects veterans with employers, job postings, and career readiness tools.
Veteran Resource Fairs
Veterans May Qualify for Extra Benefits
Check available financial assistance, healthcare programs and other opportunities that may apply to you.
Check EligibilityDVNF hosts large-scale, in-person resource fairs that deliver immediate access to health, housing, employment, and benefit services. The 2024 Resource Fair at the Silver Spring Civic Center served hundreds of veterans with over 40 vendors and sponsors, offering free medical and dental care, haircuts, employment support, and housing assistance.
Who Qualifies for DVNF Assistance?
DVNF programs are designed for disabled and at-risk veterans who are experiencing financial hardship, housing instability, or food insecurity. Eligibility varies by program. Veterans generally need to demonstrate a financial need and may be asked to provide documentation of military service and current financial status.
Eligibility by Program
| Program | Eligibility Criteria | Maximum Assistance |
|---|---|---|
| GPS | Veterans facing eviction, utility shutoff, or similar crisis | Up to $1,000 |
| H2H | Veterans transitioning from homelessness to permanent housing | Up to $2,000 |
| VFAP | Veterans experiencing financial hardship and food insecurity | Grocery delivery |
| Comfort Kits | Homeless and at-risk veterans | Essential goods |
Income Limits
DVNF does not publish specific income limits for its programs. Eligibility is determined on a case-by-case basis, with priority given to veterans demonstrating the greatest financial need. Veterans should contact DVNF directly at 1-877-426-2838 or visit dvnf.org for current program-specific eligibility requirements.
Required Documents
Documentation requirements vary by program. Veterans may need to provide:
DD-214 or proof of military service
Proof of income or financial hardship
Eviction notice or utility shutoff notice (for GPS)
Lease or housing documentation (for H2H)
Photo identification
How to Apply
Visit dvnf.org and navigate to the program page for the assistance you need.
Complete the online application or contact DVNF directly at 1-877-426-2838.
Submit supporting documentation as requested.
Wait for review. DVNF will contact you regarding your application status.
Receive assistance if approved, typically within 2–6 weeks.
Veterans can also access DVNF assistance through partner organizations, including VA medical centers and other veteran service organizations.
DVNF Charity Ratings and Financial Transparency
Charity watchdog organizations have consistently given DVNF low ratings for financial transparency and program spending. CharityWatch has rated DVNF an “F” for its transparency and performance. Charity Navigator has given DVNF a 2-out-of-4-star rating. The Better Business Bureau Wise Giving Alliance reports that DVNF does not meet several Standards for Charity Accountability.
Program Spending vs. Overhead
Based on its 2024 tax return, DVNF spent approximately 13.9 percent of its $24 million budget on programs and 86.1 percent on overhead. This is significantly higher than the recommended 25 percent maximum overhead spending.
Historical Financial Concerns
According to DVNF’s 2008 audit, less than 1 percent of the organization’s $16.3 million budget was spent on grants or aid to individuals. The rest of reported program expenses were primarily direct-mail related. A 2012 Senate inquiry raised concerns about DVNF’s spending patterns, noting that the organization had raised nearly $56 million in donations since its founding.
The 2014 New York Attorney General Settlement
In 2014, the New York Attorney General’s Charities Bureau secured a $24.6 million settlement with DVNF and its direct-mail fundraising vendors following an investigation into deceptive fundraising practices. The investigation found that DVNF’s two outside, for-profit direct-mail vendors—Quadriga Art and Convergence Direct Marketing—perpetrated misleading solicitations and failed to disclose conflicts of interest.
Settlement Details
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Settlement | $24.6 million |
| Quadriga Art Payment | $9.7 million in damages |
| Convergence Payment | $300,000 in damages |
| Debt Forgiveness | $13.8 million in debt owed by DVNF to Quadriga forgiven |
| New York State Costs | $800,000 |
| Board Changes | Original board members agreed to step down by end of 2014 |
| Funds Purpose | $10 million directed to support disabled veterans |
The Attorney General’s office stated that the direct-mail companies “used cleverly designed but misleading mailers to raise tens of millions of dollars in donations from generous Americans, nearly all of which went to the fundraisers and their agents, and left the charity nearly $14 million in debt”.
Board Restructuring
Under the settlement, DVNF’s original board members agreed to step down by the end of 2014, making way for at least five new directors qualified to oversee the organization’s financial operations.
Aftermath
Despite the 2014 settlement and debt forgiveness, CharityWatch reported in 2019 that DVNF was $6.9 million in the red only three years later. In 2020, Mother Jones published an investigation titled “A Charity for Disabled Veterans Raised Nearly $300 Million. Why Did Most of the Money Barely Reach Them?”.
DVNF vs. Other Veterans Charities
Understanding how DVNF compares to other veterans charities helps veterans and donors make informed decisions.
| Charity | CharityWatch Rating | Program Spending | Primary Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| DVNF | F | ~14% | Emergency grants, housing, food |
| DAV | A+ | 96%+ | Claims assistance, transportation, employment |
| Wounded Warrior Project | A- | 75%+ | Mental health, rehabilitation, career |
| VFW | A | 90%+ | Advocacy, service officers, community |
| Semper Fi Fund | A+ | 90%+ | Injured service members, families |
| Homes For Our Troops | A+ | 85%+ | Specially adapted homes |
When DVNF May Be Appropriate
DVNF may be appropriate for veterans who:
Are experiencing a temporary financial crisis and need emergency assistance
Are transitioning out of homelessness and need help with a security deposit
Need food assistance and cannot access other resources
Are participating in a DVNF partner organization’s program
When to Consider Other Options
Veterans and donors should consider other options when:
Seeking reliable long-term support: Organizations like DAV, VFW, and Wounded Warrior Project have higher transparency ratings and established track records.
Making charitable donations: CharityWatch recommends avoiding F-rated charities and directing donations to higher-rated organizations.
Seeking VA benefits assistance: DVNF does not provide claims assistance. Contact a VA-accredited VSO for help with VA disability claims.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Veterans considering DVNF programs or donors considering contributions should be aware of these pitfalls.
Assuming DVNF is a VA program. DVNF is a private nonprofit, not a government agency. It is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
Expecting guaranteed assistance. DVNF programs have limited funding, and approval is not guaranteed. Apply through multiple resources simultaneously.
Not researching charity ratings before donating. CharityWatch rates DVNF an F, and Charity Navigator gives it 2 out of 4 stars. Donors should review these ratings before contributing.
Confusing DVNF with DAV. The Disabled American Veterans (DAV) is a separate, VA-accredited organization with an A+ CharityWatch rating that provides free claims assistance.
Relying on DVNF for VA benefits help. DVNF does not provide VA claims assistance. Contact a VA-accredited VSO or the VA directly for benefit claims.
Overlooking other emergency resources. The VA offers financial assistance programs, and other veterans charities provide emergency grants with better transparency ratings.
Latest News and Updates
Leadership and Rebranding
DVNF launched a new website and logo in 2017 to coincide with its 10-year anniversary. CEO Joseph VanFonda (USMC SgtMaj Ret.) stated that the changes were intended to “help set a solid base for the present and the future of the foundation”.
Program Expansion
DVNF has expanded its program portfolio in recent years, including the addition of the Mission Possible mental wellness platform, national job board, and Mission Possible Podcast.
Financial Reporting
DVNF continues to file IRS Form 990 annually. In a recent CEO letter regarding the FY2024 filing, VanFonda acknowledged that while the figures are correct, the IRS form “does not fully capture the breadth of DVNF’s current programs, services, and community impact”.
Ongoing Scrutiny
Despite improvements since the 2014 settlement, DVNF continues to receive low ratings from charity watchdogs. CharityWatch’s 2025 “Worst Veterans Charities to Avoid” list includes DVNF with an F rating and a 7% program spending rate for the reporting year ending 9/30/2024.
2019 and 2020 Investigations
CharityWatch reported in 2019 that DVNF was $6.9 million in the red only three years after the 2014 settlement and debt forgiveness. In 2020, Mother Jones published a major investigation examining why most of the nearly $300 million raised by the charity barely reached veterans.
Common Questions
1. What is the Disabled Veterans National Foundation?
The Disabled Veterans National Foundation (DVNF) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2007 that provides financial assistance, food aid, and housing support to disabled and at-risk veterans. It operates programs including Grants to Provide Stability (GPS), Homeless to Housing (H2H), and the Veterans Food Assistance Program (VFAP).
2. Is DVNF a government program?
No. DVNF is a private nonprofit organization. It is not a government agency and is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
3. How much financial assistance does DVNF provide?
DVNF’s GPS program provides up to $1,000 for rent, mortgage, and utility bills. The H2H program provides up to $2,000 for housing transition costs. VFAP provides grocery assistance. All amounts are not guaranteed and subject to funding availability.
4. How do I apply for DVNF assistance?
Visit dvnf.org and navigate to the program page for the assistance you need, or call 1-877-426-2838. Complete the application and submit required documentation. Processing typically takes 2–6 weeks.
5. What are DVNF’s charity ratings?
CharityWatch rates DVNF an F for transparency and performance. Charity Navigator gives it 2 out of 4 stars. The BBB Wise Giving Alliance reports that DVNF does not meet several Standards for Charity Accountability.
6. What happened in the 2014 DVNF settlement?
In 2014, the New York Attorney General secured a $24.6 million settlement with DVNF and its direct-mail vendors over deceptive fundraising practices. Quadriga Art paid $9.7 million in damages, debt of $13.8 million was forgiven, and the original board agreed to step down.
7. Does DVNF help with VA disability claims?
No. DVNF does not provide VA claims assistance or represent veterans before the VA. For claims help, contact a VA-accredited Veterans Service Organization (VSO) like the DAV, VFW, or American Legion.
8. What percentage of DVNF donations go to programs?
Based on its 2024 tax return, approximately 13.9 percent of DVNF’s $24 million budget went to programs, with 86.1 percent spent on overhead. This is well above the recommended maximum of 25 percent overhead spending.
9. Is DVNF affiliated with the VA?
No. DVNF is a private nonprofit and is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. It does partner with VA medical centers for resource fairs and Grab N’ Go events.
10. Can I get emergency financial help from DVNF?
Yes, if you qualify for the GPS or H2H program and funding is available. Apply at dvnf.org. Approval is not guaranteed, and DVNF recommends veterans apply through multiple resources simultaneously.
11. Who is the CEO of DVNF?
Joseph VanFonda, USMC Sergeant Major (Ret.), became CEO in 2014 after retiring from a 27-year Marine Corps career. He previously directed support services for wounded, ill, and injured service members as Regimental Sergeant Major of the Wounded Warrior Regiment.
12. What is the DVNF Homeless to Housing program?
The H2H program provides up to $2,000 to disabled and at-risk veterans transitioning out of homelessness into permanent housing. Funds cover security deposits and initial rent payments, with essential household items included.
13. What is the Veterans Food Assistance Program?
VFAP delivers grocery shipments nationwide through Walmart’s online shopping and delivery system. It provides emergency food assistance to eligible veterans experiencing financial hardship.
14. Where is DVNF headquartered?
DVNF is headquartered in Lanham, Maryland. Its EIN is 26-1446183.
15. Are DVNF donations tax-deductible?
Yes. DVNF is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization, and donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. However, donors should review charity ratings before contributing.
Key Takeaways
DVNF is a private nonprofit founded in 2007 that provides emergency financial grants, housing assistance, and food aid to disabled and at-risk veterans.
Charity watchdog groups rate DVNF poorly. CharityWatch gives it an F, Charity Navigator gives it 2 out of 4 stars, and BBB Wise Giving Alliance reports it does not meet accountability standards.
Only about 14 percent of DVNF’s budget goes to programs, with 86 percent spent on overhead—well above recommended limits.
In 2014, DVNF was involved in a $24.6 million settlement with the New York Attorney General over deceptive fundraising practices by its direct-mail vendors.
**DVNF’s GPS program provides up to $1,000** for rent, mortgage, and utilities. The H2H program provides up to $2,000 for housing transition.
DVNF does not provide VA claims assistance and is not affiliated with the VA. Contact a VA-accredited VSO for benefit claims help.
Veterans can apply for DVNF assistance at dvnf.org or by calling 1-877-426-2838.
Donors should consider higher-rated charities such as DAV, Wounded Warrior Project, or Semper Fi Fund before contributing to DVNF.
Despite the 2014 settlement and board restructuring, DVNF continued to face financial difficulties, including a $6.9 million deficit reported in 2019.
Veterans seeking reliable long-term support should prioritize VA benefits, VA-accredited VSOs, and higher-rated veterans charities.
Official Resources
DVNF Official Website: dvnf.org
VA Health Benefits: va.gov/health-care/
VA Accredited Representative Search: va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/
VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars): vfw.org
CharityWatch: charitywatch.org
Charity Navigator: charitynavigator.org
BBB Wise Giving Alliance: give.org
USA.gov Veterans Benefits: usa.gov/veterans-benefits
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