Kunes Independence Initiative: Helping Disabled Veterans

For many veterans, life after service presents new challenges, particularly for those living with disabilities. Reliable transportation is essential for maintaining independence, yet many disabled veterans are unaware of the financial assistance available to help them acquire an adaptive vehicle.

Timothy Martin, also known as “Bubs,” is working to spread awareness about veterans’ benefits for mobility vans and introducing the Kunes Independence Initiative—a program designed to help disabled veterans regain their freedom on the road.

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers several programs to help disabled veterans afford a mobility van and the necessary modifications. These include:

Veterans with service-connected disabilities may be eligible for a one-time grant of up to $24,115.12 (as of 2024) to purchase a specially equipped vehicle. This grant helps cover the cost of an adaptive van, making it more affordable for veterans who need mobility solutions.

In addition to the automobile allowance, veterans can receive financial assistance for adaptive equipment, including:

• Wheelchair lifts
• Hand controls
• Specialized seating
• Left-foot accelerators

These modifications ensure that veterans can operate their vehicles safely and comfortably.

The VA’s VR&E program provides vehicle modification support for disabled veterans who need transportation to maintain employment or education. This benefit is essential for veterans who want to continue working or attending school but require a customized vehicle.

For veterans who qualify for Special Monthly Compensation, additional funds may be available to assist with ongoing vehicle maintenance and upgrades.

In addition to federal benefits, some state-level programs provide tax exemptions, rebates, or grants for disabled veterans seeking an adaptive vehicle. Veterans should check with their local VA office or Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for specific state benefits.

While these benefits are available, many veterans are unaware of them or struggle to navigate the application process. Common obstacles include:

• Lack of awareness – Many veterans do not know about mobility assistance programs.
• Complicated application process – The paperwork can be overwhelming, leading some veterans to give up before receiving benefits.
• Financial gaps – Even with grants, some veterans still face out-of-pocket costs that make adaptive vehicles unaffordable.

Advocacy, education, and community support play an essential role in ensuring veterans receive the resources they need.

To help bridge the gap, Kunes Auto Group has launched the Kunes Independence Initiative, a program designed to support individuals with disabilities—especially veterans—in securing mobility solutions.

• Providing Mobility-Friendly Vehicles – Kunes offers a variety of adaptive vehicles, ensuring veterans can find the right van or SUV to meet their needs.
• Assisting with Grant Applications – Understanding VA benefits can be confusing. The Kunes team helps veterans navigate the process, ensuring they get the funding they qualify for.
• Partnering with Veteran Organizations – Through collaborations with adaptive mobility programs and veteran support groups, Kunes is working to ensure no veteran is left without reliable transportation.
• Offering Additional Support for Vehicle Modifications – Even if a veteran secures a grant, there may still be remaining costs. Kunes helps veterans find additional funding sources and financial assistance programs to cover expenses.

The ability to drive independently or ride comfortably in an adaptive van can be life-changing for veterans. Some of the key benefits include:

• Access to Medical Care – Reliable transportation ensures veterans can attend doctor’s appointments, physical therapy, and VA hospital visits without relying on others.
• Improved Quality of Life – Mobility vans allow veterans to visit family, run errands, and engage in everyday activities without limitations.
• Career and Education Opportunities – With transportation solutions in place, veterans can return to work or school without worrying about mobility challenges.
• Participation in Adaptive Sports and Events – Many veterans enjoy adaptive sports and recreational activities, and a mobility van makes it easier to participate.
• Freedom and Independence – Above all, having a vehicle that meets their needs gives veterans back their autonomy and dignity.

If you or a veteran you know needs assistance securing a mobility van or learning more about available benefits, the Kunes team is here to help.

• Visit a Kunes Auto Group location to explore adaptive vehicle options.
• Speak with a mobility specialist who can guide you through VA benefits and financing options.
• Get assistance with paperwork and applications to secure the funding you deserve.

Contact Kunes Auto Group today to start the journey toward greater independence.

Bubs’ message is simple: Veterans have sacrificed so much for our country, and they deserve the support needed to live with dignity and freedom. The Kunes Independence Initiative is here to ensure that no veteran is left behind when it comes to mobility solutions.

Your service deserves support. Let’s drive independence forward together.