#Middlebury #Veterans
As the weather warms up, the 2019 Stand Downs get underway. Stand Downs are events for homeless veterans held over one to three days, usually at Department of Veterans Affairs medical facilities. The list of services provided is long and includes clothing, health and dental screenings, personal care supplies, haircuts, legal assistance, food, information about shelter, as well as VA and Social Security benefits counseling.
In addition, veterans can get referrals to care and treatment for substance use and mental health counseling, as well as employment help, health care and housing information. Multiple agencies and service groups come together for these Stand Downs.
To see the schedule of Stand Down events for this year, go online to www.va.gov/homeless/events.asp and scroll down. You’ll find the dates and locations as well as name, phone number and email for the point of contact. If you don’t see your location listed, keep checking back, or call the closest VA regional medical center. Ask early about whether they’ll have transportation, and sign up. Be sure to bring your VA medical card and DD-214 if you have them.
If you’re a homeless vet, there is another group you should contact: National Coalition for Homeless Veterans (www.nchv.org). If you’re in trouble (about to become homeless) call them 24/7 at 1-877-424-3838 or at 800-VET-HELP for general questions. NCHV also keeps a list of Stand Downs, so keep an eye on its website. It can help with housing, legal, employment and health issues, and more. Explore their website; they do a lot.
If you’re a member of a veteran service organization and want to help with a Stand Down, contact them and ask what you can do or bring. Transportation for veterans in rural areas, food and personal care items might be high on the list.
© 2019 King Features Synd., Inc.
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