Housing brief

Free paint, stain or varnish is being offered to help central Minnesota volunteers and organizations spruce up area communities in 2004.

The Valspar Corp. is offering the paint and coatings through its Minnesota Beautiful partnership with the Initiative Foundation.

About eight restoration or beautification projects will be selected based on visual impact, volunteer support, intended use and public benefit. Coatings must be used in area counties, including Cass, Crow Wing, Mille Lacs, Morrison, Todd and Wadena.

Eligible projects may include historic buildings, nonprofit facilities, senior centers, community centers, public buildings and murals. Ineligible projects include those from denominational churches, city maintenance, schools (except murals) and privately owned facilities.

Valspar grant applications are due no later than March 1 and are available online at www.ifound.org.

For more information, call (877) 632-9255.