homeless with assistance, services, and community resources is set for
Friday, March 13, 2009, at the Grady Cole Center in Charlotte.
Veterans from Mecklenburg County and the surrounding area who
participate in the 2009 Mecklenburg County Homeless Veterans Stand
Down will receive breakfast and lunch, have an opportunity to use the
shower facility and receive medical, mental health and dental
screenings from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Other services include employment
assistance, hair cuts, clothing and information about housing and
applying for benefits. The event includes an opening ceremony, music,
entertainment and a special POW/MIA Ceremony at 11:30 a.m.
More than 50 service providers from local, state and federal agencies,
departments, nonprofits and organizations will offer their help and
information to the veterans. Mecklenburg County Community Support
Services (CSS) is the County's lead agency for the event through its
Homeless Support Services and Veterans Services Office divisions. Area
sponsors and donors helped make the Stand Down possible with monetary,
in-kind, and other donations.
Organizers anticipate 250 to 300-plus veterans to attend the Stand Down.
On its Web site, the National Coalition for Homeless Veterans explains
the Stand Down concept: "The original Stand Down for homeless veterans
was modeled after the Stand Down concept used during the Vietnam War
to provide a safe retreat for units returning from combat operations.
At secure base camp areas, troops were able to take care of personal
hygiene, get clean uniforms, enjoy warm meals, receive medical and
dental care, mail and receive letters, and enjoy the camaraderie of
friends in a safe environment. Stand Down afforded battle-weary
(troops) the opportunity to renew their spirit, health and overall
sense of well-being."
The Stand Down event supports Mecklenburg County's strategic goals to
increase citizen self-sufficiency and to reduce health risks and
diseases.
