Stand Down events are part of the VA’s effort to provide services to ?homeless veterans, according to a press release from the VA. The events typically last one to three days and provide services such as food, shelter, health screenings, VA and Social Security benefits counseling and referrals to other services.
Proof of veteran status is required to enter the event, meaning veterans must bring their discharge information, DD214 paperwork, or their VA-issued identification card. Registration is also required for participation.
Those needing help requesting their DD214 may contact Larry Squires ?at 812-349-4406.
Registration begins at 10 a.m. at the front entrance to the American Legion Post 18 at 1800 W. Third St.
Free services during Bloomington’s Stand Down event include health screenings, job consultation, VA benefit information and the opportunity to receive an Indiana identification card with proper documents.
Post 18 will provide lunch to participating veterans and their families starting at 11:30 a.m. Water, tea and coffee will be available throughout the event.
The first Stand Down event was organized in 1988 by a group of Vietnam veterans in San Diego and has since grown, reaching more than 200,000 veterans and their families between 1994 and 2000.
The VA committed $800 million in 2011 to strengthen programs that aim to prevent homelessness among veterans through the Homeless Veterans Initiative.
Holly Hays
