Local veterans in need are utilizing an emergency fund that's new this spring. The Western Slope Veterans Coalition is behind the assistance meant for vets in the Roaring Fork and Eagle valleys. Colonial Dick Merritt is part of the coalition. He says it helps with things like utilities, food, mental health counseling, transportation, employment and housing.
"There are many veterans coming out of military service and housing’s real tight. They have jobs but no place to live, so we’re helping them on a temporary basis to get settled."
On Tuesday (6-2-15) four dozen restaurants in the Roaring Fork Valley are donating a share of the day’s sales to the emergency fund. The fundraiser is called Dining Out for Vets. So far, five veterans have utilized the emergency fund. To see a list of participating restaurants, click here.