VA Awards Funds to Renovate Veterans Home

WASHINGTON (July 14, 2004) - The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has
awarded a grant of $368,550 to the state of Kentucky to renovate the heating
and cooling system at the state veterans' home in Hanson.

"This grant reflects the federal-state partnership that is honoring our
commitment to care for the men and women who have served in uniform," said
Secretary of Veterans Affairs Anthony J. Principi. "This partnership
provides a comfortable setting for veterans in a time of great personal
need."

The grant to the Western Kentucky Veterans Center in Hanson will pay up to
65 percent of the cost to upgrade the home's heating and cooling system.
The overall cost of the project is $567,000.

The Western Kentucky Veterans Center is a 120-bed long-term nursing
facility. Eligibility is limited to Kentucky residents with discharges
rated as "other than dishonorable."

Information about the Western Kentucky Veterans Center can be obtained by
calling (270) 322-9087 or toll free (877) 662-0008. Information is also
available on the Internet at www.kdva.net/wkvc.htm
<http://www.kdva.net/wkvc.htm> .