‘Stand Down 2010’: How you can help a veteran in need

Air Force Maj. Gen. H. Michael Edwards, the Adjutant General of Colorado and commander of the Colorado National Guard, speaks with a veteran during the 19th Annual Veterans Stand Down held at the Colorado National Guard armory in Denver, Nov. 5, 2009. Photo credit: Spc. Joseph VonNida at www.army.mil – official Web site of the U.S. Army

If you know a veteran who is …

• homeless,

• struggling financially,

• in need of basics such as new clothing,

• has a legal issue,

• is having trouble getting hired,

• isn’t getting benefits due,

• wants to go back to school,

• is in ill health or struggling with addiction,

• is suffering from depression or trauma,

• needs a driver’s license,

• or is otherwise in need

…  you have an opportunity to help by bringing that veteran to “Stand Down 2010.”

Connecticut veterans will have access to vital services all in one location during “Stand Down 2010” on Friday, Sept. 10, at the State Veterans Home campus on West Street in Rocky Hill.

More than 50 government and private agencies will be there to provide

• medical screenings,
• social service assistance,
• legal help with misdemeanors,
• job counseling and referrals,
• VA benefits information
• new clothing and personal supplies
• and more.

This is the 15th year that Connecticut has sponsored “Stand Down,” which is a national event.

“Stand Down” is a term used during the Vietnam War for a safe area behind the lines that afforded battle-weary soldiers a place to take care of personal needs such as showers, haircuts and hot meals.

Connecticut held its first “Stand Down” program in 1992. Last year a record 1,200 needy veterans participated.

Free transportation for veterans will be available from key urban areas including Bridgeport, Danbury, Hartford, Meriden, New Britain, New Haven, New London, Norwich, Stamford, Torrington and Waterbury.

Veterans or their advocates (including you) can pre-register and get more information by calling (860) 616-3602 or (860) 616-3603 or by visiting www.ct.gov/ctva. However, pre-registration is not required to attend “Stand Down.”

Homeless veterans

State Veterans’ Affairs Commissioner Linda S. Schwartz said the continued high rate of unemployment has made it difficult for veterans to remain in their homes.

“As unemployment remains steady, more and more veterans of all ages are struggling to maintain an acceptable quality of life,” said Schwartz, who is herself a Vietnam Vet.

The number of homeless veterans in the United States is now estimated at more than 200,000, which represents about 25 to 30 percent of the nation’s total homeless population.

In a press release Friday, Gov. M. Jodi Rell urged residents and organizations to take it upon themselves to get at least one veteran to the event.

“Veterans’ organizations, social service advocates and health professionals around the state can help by reaching out to veterans who could benefit from the program and help get them to Rocky Hill on Sept. 10. You can make a difference by registering and following up with just one veteran in need,” she said.

Organizations and individuals interested in contributing resources or services to “Stand Down 2010” can contact the Department of Veterans’ Affairs at (860) 616-3605. It is the largest provider of direct services to homeless veterans in the state, providing residency to a daily average of almost 375 veterans.

They can help

The Connecticut Department of Veterans’ Affairs, in conjunction with state, federal and private agencies, is the lead sponsor of “Stand Down.”

Supporting state agencies include the Connecticut Departments of Banking, Labor, Higher Education, Mental Health and Addiction Services, Motor Vehicles, Public Health, Social Services and Transportation; the Office of the Chief Public Defender; and the Judicial Branch.

Participating Federal agencies include the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, U.S. Department of Labor and U.S. Social Security Administration.

Posted Sept. 4, 2010

Related links:

CT State Veterans Affairs Commissioner Linda S. Schwartz http://www.ct.gov/ctva/cwp/view.asp?a=2005&q=290722

American Homeless Veterans http://www.vetsvision.org/

“Why do American Veterans Become Homeless?” http://www.squidoo.com/homelessveterans

National Coalition for Homeless Veterans http://nchv.org/

Disabled American Veterans – Benefits Assistance http://www.dav.org/veterans/HomelessVeterans.aspx

“Supporting Homeless Women Veterans in Florida” http://oklahomawomen.blogspot.com/2010/03/supporting-homeless-women-veterans-does.html