Community briefs for Nov. 18, 2003

Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2003 | 9:03 a.m.

Grants available for vets' housing

The Veterans Affairs Department is accepting applications from public and nonprofit groups to provide up to 1,500 new transitional housing beds to help veterans recover from homelessness.

Under the VA's Homeless Providers Grant and Per Diem Program, the VA provides funds to community, faith-based and nonprofit organizations, and state, local, tribal and territorial governments to help homeless veterans.

VA can provide per-diem payments to recipients for up to 36 months under this program.

To obtain an application packet or for more information, contact the Grant and Per Diem Program at 1-877-332-0334.

The deadline for grant applications is Jan. 28.

McDonald House fund-raiser starts

World Children's Day, McDonald's annual global fund-raiser for children, will take place Thursday in more than 100 countries at participating McDonald's Restaurants worldwide to raise funds for Ronald McDonald House Charities and local children's causes around the world.

U.S. customers can participate by purchasing premium salads or french fries Thursday through Sunday.

By purchasing select items at participating McDonald's restaurants, people worldwide have the opportunity to help children in their local communities.

Mountain trail nears completion

Construction of the final 16-mile segment of the River Mountains Loop Trail southeast of Las Vegas could proceed after Dec. 15, once the public comments on environmental impacts of the project.

The trail would be for hikers, bikers and wheelchairs, but not motor vehicles.

The entire trail, when completed, would encompass 35 miles with views of Lake Mead and other natural areas.

Copies of the environmental assessment are available on the Lake Mead National Recreation Area website (/www.nps.gov) or by calling 293-8956.

Comments can be mailed to: Superintendent, Attention: Construction of the River Mountain Loop Trail EA, Lake Mead National Recreation Area, 601 Nevada Way, Boulder City.