Beyond the Battlefield: How Cannabis Can Be a Lifeline for Veterans (and Why the Industry Needs to Step Up)

Veterans have sacrificed their bodies and minds for this country, yet too often, they return home to a system that fails them—especially when it comes to alternative healing treatments like cannabis.

Despite the life-changing relief many veterans find in cannabis, they face a mess of bureaucratic barriers, social stigma, and lack of support. 

Here’s where cannabis businesses can (and should) step in.

Supporting veteran wellness programs isn’t just a chance to do some good; it’s a chance to address a massive gap in care and change lives. Let’s dive into why this is critical—and how you can make a real difference.

The Battle Doesn’t End on the Frontlines: Why Cannabis Matters for Veterans

Veterans don’t just come home and magically adapt; many face lifelong battles with PTSD, chronic pain, anxiety, and depression. For a lot of them, traditional pharmaceuticals come with side effects that create a whole new set of problems. 

Cannabis, on the other hand, has been a lifesaver. According to a study by the American Legion, over 80% of veterans support access to cannabis as a treatment for physical and mental health issues, with over 20% already using it to alleviate symptoms.

This plant isn’t just therapeutic—it’s a game-changer.

But here’s the catch: the VA doesn’t recognize cannabis as a treatment option. That leaves vets stuck navigating restrictive state laws, high prices, and a lack of access. 

Imagine going to war for your country, coming home, and being told that the one thing that helps you cope isn’t an option.

That’s the reality for so many veterans. And if you’re a cannabis business, it’s a reality you have the power to help change.

What Cannabis Businesses Can Do: Beyond Token Support

Supporting veterans isn’t about slapping a “Support Our Troops” sticker on your storefront or donating a portion of profits once a year. It’s about creating tangible, ongoing support that veterans can rely on. 

Companies that go all-in on veteran support can make a huge difference—and it doesn’t have to be complicated. Partner with or donate regularly to organizations like the Weed for Warriors Project (wfwproject.org) and Operation EVAC (opevac.org), which work tirelessly to provide cannabis education, safe access, and community support for veterans.

Imagine the impact if every cannabis business committed to regularly supporting these programs, either through direct donations, in-kind support, or even employee volunteer days. 

This isn’t about PR; it’s about building a brand that’s part of the solution for veterans. And if you’re not sure where to start, reach out to these organizations—they’ll show you exactly how to help.

Philanthropy in Cannabis: Making Real Change Beyond Profits

The cannabis industry is still in its formative years, which means businesses have the unique opportunity to shape its reputation and values from the ground up. By investing in philanthropy, particularly initiatives that focus on social equity, community development, and mental health, cannabis companies can become drivers of change. 

Supporting causes like criminal justice reform, sustainable cultivation, and access to wellness resources for underrepresented communities creates a ripple effect that can shift public perception and build trust.

Here are a few impactful philanthropic programs to consider supporting:

• The Last Prisoner Project (lastprisonerproject.org): Works to free those still incarcerated for cannabis-related charges.
• National Expungement Works (NEW) (nationalexpungement.org): Helps individuals clear their criminal records, paving the way for fresh opportunities.
• Hood Incubator (hoodincubator.org): Focuses on cannabis entrepreneurship training and resources for communities disproportionately affected by the war on drugs.

Philanthropy in cannabis isn’t just about making a donation; it’s about reshaping the industry’s identity to reflect the values of social responsibility and change. This is about setting a precedent for an industry that is willing to fight for the people who fought for us.

Checklist for Cannabis Businesses Committed to Supporting Veterans

If you’re serious about supporting veterans through your cannabis business, here’s a checklist to guide you:

Connect with Veteran-Focused Organizations

Reach out to groups like Weed for Warriors Project and Operation EVAC. Find out what kind of support they need, whether it's donations, volunteer time, or hosting educational events.

Implement Veteran Discounts or Access Programs

Consider offering discounts to veterans or even sponsoring memberships for veterans in need. Show them you’re there for them, beyond just Veteran’s Day.

Educate Your Team on Veteran Needs

Host internal training sessions to help your team understand the unique challenges veterans face and why cannabis access matters.

Fund Community Education Initiatives

Partner with local veteran groups to host educational events or support them in their outreach efforts. This not only raises awareness but breaks down the stigma of cannabis for veterans.

Regularly Evaluate Your Philanthropic Impact

Track and share the impact of your contributions. Share this journey with your customers to let them know where their dollars are making a difference.

By incorporating veteran support into your company culture and making it a staple of your business model, you’re creating an authentic impact. Supporting veterans isn’t just a feel-good initiative; it’s a movement that reinforces why cannabis matters and who it can truly help.

Creating Real Change: A Call to the Cannabis Industry

It’s time for the cannabis industry to get serious about veteran support. Not as a marketing tool, but as a core value. 

Veterans deserve access to the treatments that work for them, and cannabis businesses are in a unique position to help make that happen. From supporting organizations like Weed for Warriors and Operation EVAC to advocating for policy changes, every cannabis business has a role to play in making a difference.

The bottom line? Veterans put it all on the line for us. The least we can do is help them get the relief they need. If you’re in the cannabis industry, now is the time to act—not because it’s trendy, but because it’s the right thing to do.

Let’s step up and make a difference that’s felt far beyond the boardroom.

Ready to make a real impact? Let's talk  to learn how your business can support veteran wellness through cannabis. Let’s create an industry that’s as bold in its values as it is in its vision.