The N.J. Department of Health has announced a grant opportunity totaling $5.5 million to deliver primary care, behavioral health and other healthcare needs to veterans.

Citing the growing number of veterans and their often complex healthcare needs, DOH said the project aims to increase the number of veterans who receive care and ensure that care is promptly available and delivered using appropriate evidence-based screening and treatment.

The grant opportunity includes $5 million to support a statewide effort to serve veterans’ primary care, behavioral health and other needs and leverage that funding to further develop existing frameworks in New Jersey. The remaining $500,000 will be designated to support innovative or evidence-based smaller denomination grants that provide health wellness and management services to veterans and their families.

According to the request for applications, the Department aims to award funds to at least two entities, one based in central/northern New Jersey and one based in southern New Jersey. Eligible applicants include those already providing primary care or behavioral health services targeted to veterans and may include nonprofit hospitals with expertise in behavioral health services or a New Jersey state university provider of behavioral health services – each working in partnership with the other sector.

Letters of intent are due Nov. 4, and applications will be accepted through Nov. 25. Additional details and deadlines are available in the request for applications.