On May 3, 2008 WarOnTerrorNews wrote an excellent article on a Stand Down that will be happening in October this year. You can find that article here. Helping Our Homeless Veterans - Operation Standdown. It may be found under Support Our Troops-Actively.
This is such an important type of event that I wanted to write about it again. I have seen Stand Downs mentioned before but never really understood what they were all about. They began back in 1988 to help our homeless veterans. It occurred out in San Diego, and was organized by a group of Vietnam Vets.
What exactly does a Stand Down do? A Stand Down is an event organized to provide services such as food, clothing, VA and Social Security benefit counseling, referrals for housing, substance abuse, employment and many more areas to our homeless veterans and their families.
Can you imagine being homeless in a northern state in the middle of winter, in any state for that matter? How do you stay warm? What about safety? The Stand Down in Tennessee going on this October will be providing work clothing, winter coats, hats, gloves and other items.
This is one of many programs the VA offers to help our homeless vets. Next time you see information about one in your area, call the number listed for more information. I am sure you will find something you can help with, whether it is a donation of your time or even clothing and other supplies they need. People are needed to help set up prior to the start, to work the event, and to help with the taking down and cleaning up after the Stand Down is over.
Lasting anywhere from one to three days in length of time, they are located all across the United States, including one scheduled in San Juan, PR. If you would like more information on dates and locations, please contact the Homeless Veterans Programs Office at (202) 461-7401 or see the listing on the VA Govt. website.
Copyright 2008 MsMarti. All rights reserved.
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