Far too many military veterans don’t have legal access to medical cannabis since the plant is still widely illegal across the nation. Even though countless studies suggest that there are promising effects of cannabis use for PTSD and other mental or physical health symptoms, there still seems to be a negative connotation with the plant that does wonders.

Many veterans seek access to reliable, safe, and legal cannabis, and shockingly, they can still face criminal charges for improving their physical and mental health with the plant. Battling these disheartening stigmas are many veteran-owned and led cannabis organizations aiming to support veterans seeking legal and medicinal cannabis. Here’s a list of some of the top companies striving for change.

The team of California-based military veterans at the Santa Cruz Veterans Alliance are advocating for complete cannabis access while growing their own weed for fellow veterans. The company also has a Veteran Compassion Program, where they provide free lab-tested cannabis to over 100 veterans per month. The program also educates veterans about cannabis cultivation with their unique horticulture therapy sessions.

This social justice organization is supporting and urging change on a federal level in terms of cannabis legality. Weed for Warriors Project is cannabis enthusiasts who advocate compassionate alternative care for veterans. Volunteers with Weed for Warriors Project are committed to educating lawmakers and supporting veterans seeking legal cannabis.

Founded by veteran Eric Goepel, Veterans Cannabis Coalition strives to destigmatize cannabis through research, reform, and restoration. Veterans Cannabis Coalition uses advocacy, education, and policy initiatives to get veterans full and legal access to medical marijuana throughout the country. The Coalition also oversees the Veterans Compassion Network, which asks for and donates cannabis to veterans around California.

MOTA Glass is a Los Angeles-based cannabis retail brand owned by minorities and veterans. They create borosilicate glass pipes, bongs, and other needed accessories. After launching in November 2020, MOTA Glass has made countless efforts to hire veterans and offer a permanent 25% military discount.

Veterans Alliance for Holistic Alternatives was founded by veteran Gary Hess and advocates open access to medical cannabis for veterans. VAHA strives to empower veterans and offer resources to access medical cannabis through educational outreach, volunteer support, and policy reform.