A Keene-based nonprofit organization has received a federal grant to help keep veterans in their homes.

U.S. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, D-N.H., and U.S. Rep. Ann M. Kuster, D-N.H., announced Thursday that Southwestern Community Services will be awarded a $263,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs' Supportive Services for Veteran Families program.

The grant will be used to cover rent, utility payments and other living costs for more than 55 veterans and their families, according to a joint news release from Shaheen and Kuster.

Southwestern Community Services, which focuses on supporting low-income residents and families, was one of 319 agencies nationwide to receive grants from the veterans affairs program, the news release said.

The grant gives Southwestern Community Services the opportunity to do a lot of good that will have a positive effect on the community, Chief Development Officer Keith F. Thibault said in the news release.

"We see the need within the veterans community, and we're excited to be in a position to help."