Ascension Veterans Memorial Park was awarded a $13,000 grant from the Home Depot Foundation to refurbish the park ahead of its annual Veterans Day program on Nov. 11.

The grant application was spearheaded by Park Committee chair and longtime supporter retired Maj. Shelby Ballard, with the assistance of Nikisha Washington, rental facilities Manager at the Home Depot Store 0383 in Gonzales.

Ballard received notification of the grant award just two weeks after applying.

The grant will fund significant improvements at the park, including power washing, planting new shrubs, painting and general cleanup. These enhancements will not only revitalize the park but also enhance its beauty and appeal, a news release said.

The Home Depot will be providing essential tools and materials such as mulch, shrubs, limestone, power washers and paint. In addition to supplying materials, Home Depot will also send a team of painters and volunteers to assist with the power washing and painting.

"We are extremely grateful for this support from the Home Depot Foundation," said Ballard. "Their generosity will help ensure that Ascension Veterans Memorial Park looks its best for this year's Veterans Day program, a cherished tradition in our community."

The Veterans Day event will open to the public at 11 a.m. on Monday, Nov. 11, at Ascension Veterans Memorial Park, next to the Gonzales branch library.

Volunteers who wish to assist in the park cleanup and beautification project alongside the Home Depot team are asked to contact Ballard at [email protected].