Veterans offer compelling stories at Miami outreach event
BY DAVID OVALLE
Miami Herald
After eight years in the military and a traumatic tour of duty in Afghanistan, Dustin Lewis drifted onto the streets of Fort Lauderdale and into an abyss of cocaine and marijuana.
His wife left him. He hasn’t seen his two children in years. But in recent months, Lewis has gotten clean, moved into a veterans’ transition home and, on Saturday, found himself enjoying a simple pleasure: a haircut.
Lewis, 36, grinning broadly, sat in the chair courtesy of the Florida Barber Academy, which gave free haircuts to a line of veterans at Saturday’s outreach event at the American Legion Hall in Miami’s Upper Eastside.
For dozens of veterans such as Lewis, the event organized by the Veterans Affairs administration offered small tokens of appreciation: a dental check-up, free shoes, some strong coffee and a bagel.
But the event also provided bigger glimmers of hope: leads for jobs and housing placement, mental health counseling and help ironing out government benefits.
“I just want to work. I’ve been destructive for a very long time,” Lewis said. “I want to pay bills. I want to pay taxes. I don’t want to be become rich. I just want to do the right thing.”
Saturday’s Homeless Veteran Stand Down comes against the backdrop of the 10-year anniversary of the war in Iraq. Most of the veterans who attended, however, hail from earlier generations stretching back to the Korea and Vietnam conflicts.
read more here
Showing posts with label Stand Down. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Stand Down. Show all posts
Monday, March 18, 2013
Saturday, September 29, 2012
Suicide Prevention Day?
Complaining aout what the DOD has been "doing" to address military suicides, hasn't been enough to get them to change a thing no matter how many succeeded in doing it. Well, now you get a glimpse of one of these Stand Downs from someone who was there and wrote about it.
Suicide Prevention Day?
ASPIRING WRITERS, FEATURED, FEATURED WRITER
SEPTEMBER 29, 2012 BY ROB
27 September 2012
Last night I slept on the couch with my sick 3 year old daughter. As I was getting ready for work, my wife woke up with a fever and our baby might have a sinus infection. When my wife asked if I could stay home to help out, I said I can’t… but I would try to get home early. I couldn’t stay home because today is Stand Down for Suicide Day across the entire United States Army.
Today is a great opportunity for Soldiers to stand as one and come together to battle a growing epidemic. The importance of this day has been brought up over the past few weeks and I even received a mass email from General Odierno on my AKO.
I don’t want to talk about the reasoning of this day and what it means, because I can’t stress the importance enough. Rather, I want to talk about HOW the Army goes about training its Soldiers… and why it doesn’t work.
I won’t identify my Brigade because I don’t think that’s fair. Besides, this situation could’ve happened in any unit. As part of Headquarters and Headquarters Company (HHC), our place of duty this morning was the BDE Chapel. I had hope that we could take this topic seriously, or at the very least escape the office for an hour or two. The acting HHC Company Commander was in charge of leading the training which included the “Shoulder to Shoulder” video and a PowerPoint presentation that would spark conversation. Unfortunately, he was told THAT MORNING he would be responsible for this task (for the record, he did a great job under the circumstances). He asked me to help because he knew I had dealt with situations of suicide before.
When the time came to address the group and share stories, I had a plan of telling the group about SSG Montgomery, or my sister, or even my brushes with suicidal thoughts. I was prepared to pour my heart out in an attempt to possibly make a larger impact then strangers in a video. But not with an audience that wasn’t willing to listen. I think this attitude is one of the biggest problems with suicide in the Army…read more here
Saturday, September 22, 2012
Sacramento Stand Down left homeless veterans with 11 hour wait
Homeless, Disabled Veterans Frustrated by Change in Charity's Policy
Marin Austin
FOX40 News
September 21, 2012
SACRAMENTO
Dozens of homeless Sacramento-area veterans had to wait 11 hours before being let in to a charity event Friday.
"I usually show my military ID. They have my name on the list, and they let me in," disabled U.S. Navy Veteran Dwyane Smith said, explaining how it worked at previous Sacramento Stand Down events.
But this year, "they're not there for me right now, they're turning me away." said Smith.
Smith isn’t the only one. Dozens of veterans spent the day waiting outside of Camp Pollock Friday. This year, Sacramento Stand Down required veterans to preregister for their annual event. For a lot of veterans, that's a lot easier said than done.
"Most of the vets don't have phones or addresses; they don't get this information,” said Leon Robinson, a disabled veteran.
read more here
Marin Austin
FOX40 News
September 21, 2012
SACRAMENTO
Dozens of homeless Sacramento-area veterans had to wait 11 hours before being let in to a charity event Friday.
"I usually show my military ID. They have my name on the list, and they let me in," disabled U.S. Navy Veteran Dwyane Smith said, explaining how it worked at previous Sacramento Stand Down events.
But this year, "they're not there for me right now, they're turning me away." said Smith.
Smith isn’t the only one. Dozens of veterans spent the day waiting outside of Camp Pollock Friday. This year, Sacramento Stand Down required veterans to preregister for their annual event. For a lot of veterans, that's a lot easier said than done.
"Most of the vets don't have phones or addresses; they don't get this information,” said Leon Robinson, a disabled veteran.
read more here
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
Stand Down wraps up its 4-day event for homeless veterans
East Bay Stand Down wraps up its 4-day event as homeless veterans head back to where they were
Group's goal at Fairgrounds event was to provide needed services, a bit of cheer
by Jeb Bing
Pleasanton Weekly Staff
Hundreds of Bay Area homeless veterans are back to wherever they were a week ago after four days of special care during the East Bay Stand Down at the Alameda County Fairgrounds.
The more than 450 veterans left by bus for their home destinations at noon yesterday with roast beef sandwiches and more, possibly their last full meal of the day.
By early afternoon, the giant tent city where they lived, ate and received care also was gone, emptying the space that had been provided free of charge by Fairgrounds director Rick Pickering and his staff.
While here, the veterans were offered a wide range of services not readily available where they're living. These included medical exams, legal advice, haircuts and even special care for the pets they brought along.
The pets, by the way, included even a parakeet and a snake, said former Judge Ron Hyde, who supervised Saturday night's dinner for the homeless men and women.
Hundreds of volunteers donated their services. Among the favored free services were free hot showers and plenty of food.
The East Bay Stand Down organization also offered all new clothing, boots and other basic needs. Through the support of local dentists, it offered free oral health care, as well as follow-up care after the event.
Starting in 2000, the group has put on the event every two years. It is aimed at breaking the cycle of problems facing many Bay Area vets.
read more here
Group's goal at Fairgrounds event was to provide needed services, a bit of cheer
by Jeb Bing
Pleasanton Weekly Staff
Hundreds of Bay Area homeless veterans are back to wherever they were a week ago after four days of special care during the East Bay Stand Down at the Alameda County Fairgrounds.
The more than 450 veterans left by bus for their home destinations at noon yesterday with roast beef sandwiches and more, possibly their last full meal of the day.
By early afternoon, the giant tent city where they lived, ate and received care also was gone, emptying the space that had been provided free of charge by Fairgrounds director Rick Pickering and his staff.
While here, the veterans were offered a wide range of services not readily available where they're living. These included medical exams, legal advice, haircuts and even special care for the pets they brought along.
The pets, by the way, included even a parakeet and a snake, said former Judge Ron Hyde, who supervised Saturday night's dinner for the homeless men and women.
Hundreds of volunteers donated their services. Among the favored free services were free hot showers and plenty of food.
The East Bay Stand Down organization also offered all new clothing, boots and other basic needs. Through the support of local dentists, it offered free oral health care, as well as follow-up care after the event.
Starting in 2000, the group has put on the event every two years. It is aimed at breaking the cycle of problems facing many Bay Area vets.
read more here
I made this video in 2007, so the numbers have changed but you'll get the message.
About the Video: They are veterans everyday, not just one, for the rest of their lives. Some of them ended up homeless and forgotten. Most of them have PTSD but were never treated to heal. Next time you see a homeless veteran, think about how they became that way.
Sunday, August 19, 2012
St. Augustine Stand Down refits veterans
'Stand down' refits vets, homeless
Posted: August 19, 2012
By SHELDON GARDNER
St. Augustine Record
Saturday’s stand down at the Anastasia Island Elks Lodge provided cots, clothing and a fresh pair of boots to dozens of appreciative veterans.
For veteran Gary Johnson, the stand down provided a chance to give back to people who are going through the same thing he did.
“I’ve seen three or four days with nothing to eat — a week. I’ve been there,” Johnson said.
At least 43 homeless or in-need veterans received assistance through the stand down, which are periodic events that provide haircuts, hot showers, clothing, cots, assistance applying for benefits and answers to legal questions.
The annual stand down also helped more than 80 non-veterans, said Heather Andrews, assistant veterans service officer for St. Johns County.
read more here
Posted: August 19, 2012
By SHELDON GARDNER
St. Augustine Record
Saturday’s stand down at the Anastasia Island Elks Lodge provided cots, clothing and a fresh pair of boots to dozens of appreciative veterans.
For veteran Gary Johnson, the stand down provided a chance to give back to people who are going through the same thing he did.
“I’ve seen three or four days with nothing to eat — a week. I’ve been there,” Johnson said.
At least 43 homeless or in-need veterans received assistance through the stand down, which are periodic events that provide haircuts, hot showers, clothing, cots, assistance applying for benefits and answers to legal questions.
The annual stand down also helped more than 80 non-veterans, said Heather Andrews, assistant veterans service officer for St. Johns County.
read more here
Friday, April 27, 2012
Florida homeless veterans get help
Governor's $1 million grant helps homeless veterans
A grant by the governor will give veteran support groups in the state of Florida a $1 million boost.
By Craig Rubadoux, Malcolm Denemark and Tim Walter
Posted April 27, 2012
A grant by the governor will give veteran support groups in the state of Florida a $1 million boost.
By Craig Rubadoux, Malcolm Denemark and Tim Walter
Posted April 27, 2012
Thursday, February 2, 2012
Disabled veteran and wife living in tent
Jacksonville Couple Living in Tent
By: TONY RAWLINGS | WNCT
Published: February 01, 2012
JACKSONVILLE, N.C.- In covering a story about assistance for veterans, yesterday Nine On Your Side's Tony Rawlings met a couple that lives in a tent. Today, Tony followed up with the couple to see how they survive in the woods.
At first glance, no one would expect to see a tent set up in the woods near apartments in the middle of the city.
A closer look shows that this is the permanent home of Robert and Dianne Dennis. We first met the couple during Tuesday's veteran stand down.
Robert is a disabled Army Veteran and the two were getting clothes and blankets to stay warm.
The couple live in a tent in the woods, but they don't consider themselves homeless.
read more here
By: TONY RAWLINGS | WNCT
Published: February 01, 2012
JACKSONVILLE, N.C.- In covering a story about assistance for veterans, yesterday Nine On Your Side's Tony Rawlings met a couple that lives in a tent. Today, Tony followed up with the couple to see how they survive in the woods.
At first glance, no one would expect to see a tent set up in the woods near apartments in the middle of the city.
A closer look shows that this is the permanent home of Robert and Dianne Dennis. We first met the couple during Tuesday's veteran stand down.
Robert is a disabled Army Veteran and the two were getting clothes and blankets to stay warm.
The couple live in a tent in the woods, but they don't consider themselves homeless.
read more here
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
Homeless veterans turn out for showers, clothes and haircuts
Homeless veterans turn out for showers, clothes and haircuts
February 01, 2012 5:07 AM
HOPE HODGE - DAILY NEWS STAFF
At the second annual Veterans’ Stand-down hosted by Onslow County Joblink Tuesday, the most popular attraction was free haircuts.
Two barbers from new shop Simply Cuts in Swansboro stayed busy all morning and afternoon, offering trims to homeless and indigent community members as they trickled through the bustling American Legion hall on Broadhurst Road.
Barber Anthony Trianoski said the team had probably given more than 20 haircuts in three hours, and the day wasn’t over.
“As they’re sitting down, they’re telling their stories,” Trianoski said. “It makes me feel good that we came.”
In addition to a fresh cut, more than 40 services were available for homeless community members at the stand-down, event organizer Kelley Hamilton, disabled veteran outreach specialist for Onslow Joblink, said.
Visitors could see her for job opportunities and information, receive health and dental screenings, begin VA paperwork, pick up bags of donated clothing and a free hot lunch and — new this year — go next door to the National Guard Armory to take a warm shower.
read more here
February 01, 2012 5:07 AM
HOPE HODGE - DAILY NEWS STAFF
At the second annual Veterans’ Stand-down hosted by Onslow County Joblink Tuesday, the most popular attraction was free haircuts.
Two barbers from new shop Simply Cuts in Swansboro stayed busy all morning and afternoon, offering trims to homeless and indigent community members as they trickled through the bustling American Legion hall on Broadhurst Road.
Barber Anthony Trianoski said the team had probably given more than 20 haircuts in three hours, and the day wasn’t over.
“As they’re sitting down, they’re telling their stories,” Trianoski said. “It makes me feel good that we came.”
In addition to a fresh cut, more than 40 services were available for homeless community members at the stand-down, event organizer Kelley Hamilton, disabled veteran outreach specialist for Onslow Joblink, said.
Visitors could see her for job opportunities and information, receive health and dental screenings, begin VA paperwork, pick up bags of donated clothing and a free hot lunch and — new this year — go next door to the National Guard Armory to take a warm shower.
read more here
Saturday, October 8, 2011
American Legion Post Ride to benefit homeless veterans
Ride to benefit homeless veterans
Post 11 hosting ride to help homeless veterans
Friday, 07 Oct 2011
Tiffanie Dismore
LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) - Tippecanoe County veterans are rallying together to help veterans who come across hard times.
Military Family Research Institute Assistant Director Martina Sternberg said more than 900 families in the county with a military connection sought assistance from organizations last year.
Next month Lafayette will host its first Stand Down event which is a day that the community takes care of homeless veterans.
To raise money for the event, the American Legion Post 11 is hosting a benefit Sunday.
Post Commander Fred Klaverenga said this is an issue the community needs to get behind.
"We were sitting in here and a homeless vet came in and he wanted money for a hair cut and a shave. I really think these boys needs help," Klaverenga said.
read more here
Post 11 hosting ride to help homeless veterans
Friday, 07 Oct 2011
Tiffanie Dismore
LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) - Tippecanoe County veterans are rallying together to help veterans who come across hard times.
Military Family Research Institute Assistant Director Martina Sternberg said more than 900 families in the county with a military connection sought assistance from organizations last year.
Next month Lafayette will host its first Stand Down event which is a day that the community takes care of homeless veterans.
To raise money for the event, the American Legion Post 11 is hosting a benefit Sunday.
Post Commander Fred Klaverenga said this is an issue the community needs to get behind.
"We were sitting in here and a homeless vet came in and he wanted money for a hair cut and a shave. I really think these boys needs help," Klaverenga said.
read more here
Sunday, September 25, 2011
Homeless vets get help with their problems at Orlando Stand Down
Last year I was in Buffalo when they held the Stand Down. My husband went with the DAV to help out. After he told me about all they had going on, I wondered why there was so little coverage on the news. It sounded wonderful! So many volunteers showing up to help veterans otherwise forgotten and avoided. Anyway, I showed up yesterday with camera in hand to get some of it on tape. The problem was, I was told I couldn't film or even take pictures. This reporter was there doing an interview and she told me the photographer would have plenty of pictures for me see.
As you can see, no pictures. At least the Sentinel reported on it. I checked News 13 site and there was nothing. Channel 2 didn't have anything. None of the others had anything. What's really bothering me right now is that when our veterans commit crimes, they are all swarming around to report on it. When one of them is in need and being helped out by volunteers because they care, no one seems interested.
So, to the Sentinel, thank you for reporting on this and to the volunteers, thank you for caring. To the others, this is why I hardly ever watch the news anymore.
As you can see, no pictures. At least the Sentinel reported on it. I checked News 13 site and there was nothing. Channel 2 didn't have anything. None of the others had anything. What's really bothering me right now is that when our veterans commit crimes, they are all swarming around to report on it. When one of them is in need and being helped out by volunteers because they care, no one seems interested.
So, to the Sentinel, thank you for reporting on this and to the volunteers, thank you for caring. To the others, this is why I hardly ever watch the news anymore.
Homeless vets get help with their problems
By EloÃsa Ruano González, Orlando Sentinel
6:53 p.m. EDT, September 24, 2011
U.S. Navy veteran Bill Kirwin needs a computer to search for a job and turn his life around, but he needs a library card to access the Internet at the Orlando Public Library. And to receive a free library card, he needed an identification card.
Kirwin finally received a state-issued I.D. at the Veterans Stand Down event held Saturday in Orlando. He was among the hundreds of homeless veterans who showed up for free haircuts, food and bags filled with hygiene products, clothing and a sleeping bag.
"When you're out on the street, transportation is a problem. Here, [the services] are all right here," said 37-year-old Kirwin, who will be entering a six-month residential treatment program to deal with the alcohol problem he developed while in the Navy.
The event, held at the Orlando Downtown Recreation Complex, also gave homeless vets an opportunity to sign up for transitional housing, food assistance, drug treatment programs and other services.
"It's our obligation to take care of them [veterans]," said Tim Liezert, director of the Orlando VA Medical Center. He watched as the veterans made their way through the maze of tables inside the recreation center. The veterans were allowed to use the showers at the facility.
read more here
Monday, July 11, 2011
60 Minutes puts focus on homeless veterans and Stand Down
Stand Down
Some veterans returning from Iraq or Afghanistan into the recession are finding themselves homeless. Scott Pelley reports on an annual encampment in San Diego where veterans can find hope, help and services.
Some veterans returning from Iraq or Afghanistan into the recession are finding themselves homeless. Scott Pelley reports on an annual encampment in San Diego where veterans can find hope, help and services.
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Med student, mom spark shoe drive for homeless vets
Great story and will make you stop to think of what you can do too!
Moments after meeting a homeless veteran in desperate need of shoes, UCF medical student Reid Green knew what he had to do.
The 22-year-old Venice, Fl., native yanked the Nikes off his feet and handed them over to the stunned ex-military man.
"Are you sure? Are you sure?" the man kept saying.
Green had no doubts.
"He wanted shoes but there were none for him," said Green, who was volunteering at a recent Veterans Affairs-sponsored food and clothing giveaway in Orlando when he noticed the man's plight.
Green's motivation: "He needed them more."
It wasn't a big deal to him, Green said, but he was touched by the man's gratitude.
For the next several hours, Green padded around in his socks, never mind the damp ground.
Green later phoned his mother, Randi, to tell her about his encounter with the veteran.
"Mom, something almost broke my heart today," he told her.
click link above to read more
Med student, mom spark shoe drive for homeless vets
Moments after meeting a homeless veteran in desperate need of shoes, UCF medical student Reid Green knew what he had to do.
The 22-year-old Venice, Fl., native yanked the Nikes off his feet and handed them over to the stunned ex-military man.
"Are you sure? Are you sure?" the man kept saying.
Green had no doubts.
"He wanted shoes but there were none for him," said Green, who was volunteering at a recent Veterans Affairs-sponsored food and clothing giveaway in Orlando when he noticed the man's plight.
Green's motivation: "He needed them more."
It wasn't a big deal to him, Green said, but he was touched by the man's gratitude.
For the next several hours, Green padded around in his socks, never mind the damp ground.
Green later phoned his mother, Randi, to tell her about his encounter with the veteran.
"Mom, something almost broke my heart today," he told her.
click link above to read more
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Stepping up for Stand Down in San Diego
Stepping up for Stand Down
Chaplain Pavich pulls it all together – again – for next weekend's rally for homeless veterans
By Caroline Dipping
Union-Tribune Staff Writer
2:00 a.m. July 12, 2009
Nearly 1,000 homeless military veterans are expected to descend on San Diego High School's upper athletic field next weekend for the 22nd annual Veterans Village of San Diego Stand Down. As in years past, they will be looking forward to a shower, food and a safe place to sleep. Maybe even a haircut.
Whether they get this, and a host of other services crucial to their welfare, hinges on the organizational acumen and sheer workhorse drive of one woman.
Darcy Lovgren Pavich.
Pavich took over as San Diego's Stand Down coordinator 10 years ago by happenstance, when the regular coordinator retired just a month before the three-day rally. The former Navy chaplain was nearing the end of a long convalescence from ovarian cancer when her husband, Al, then CEO of Veterans Village of San Diego, asked her if she could pitch in and help with that year's Stand Down.
go here for more
Stepping up for Stand Down
Chaplain Pavich pulls it all together – again – for next weekend's rally for homeless veterans
By Caroline Dipping
Union-Tribune Staff Writer
2:00 a.m. July 12, 2009
Nearly 1,000 homeless military veterans are expected to descend on San Diego High School's upper athletic field next weekend for the 22nd annual Veterans Village of San Diego Stand Down. As in years past, they will be looking forward to a shower, food and a safe place to sleep. Maybe even a haircut.
Whether they get this, and a host of other services crucial to their welfare, hinges on the organizational acumen and sheer workhorse drive of one woman.
Darcy Lovgren Pavich.
Pavich took over as San Diego's Stand Down coordinator 10 years ago by happenstance, when the regular coordinator retired just a month before the three-day rally. The former Navy chaplain was nearing the end of a long convalescence from ovarian cancer when her husband, Al, then CEO of Veterans Village of San Diego, asked her if she could pitch in and help with that year's Stand Down.
go here for more
Stepping up for Stand Down
Saturday, September 20, 2008
Albany Stand Down, Two decades of service to veterans
Two decades of service to veterans
By TERRY BROWN, Staff writer
First published: Saturday, September 20, 2008
Organizers of the 20th annual Veteran's Stand Down in the Capital Region are continuing their tradition of service to veterans and their families in need next month.
Free help, including finding employment and shelter, food, clothing, medical screening, legal advice and Veterans Affairs advice regarding benefits, programs and services will be available from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, at one stop: the Colonie Elks Lodge at 11 Elks Lane, off Route 155 in Latham. Doors open at 7 a.m.
"We'll let the veteran tell us what we can do to help them have a better life," said Doug Williams, an Elks lodge member and an Stand Down organizer.
The Department of Veterans Affairs, state Division of Military and Naval Affairs, state Labor Department and the Elks lodge are organizing the Stand Down.
The VA, DMNA and Labor Department held stand downs at armories until the 9/11 terrorist attacks shut armories for public use because of security concerns. That's when the Colonie Elks stepped in to help, including providing a site.
Approximately 150 veterans were helped during the first stand down in 1988. Last year, 319 male and 19 female veterans were helped, according to Jim Aube of Latham, lodge spokesman. Most were Vietnam War and Persian Gulf War veterans, he said.
"When the veterans come through the door and register they will be greeted by 14 Albany Medical Center Hospital interns," said Williams. "The interns will ask each vet how are they doing. That gives each vet a chance to express any medical concerns that need attention."
go here for more
http://timesunion.com/AspStories/story.asp?storyID=722365
By TERRY BROWN, Staff writer
First published: Saturday, September 20, 2008
Organizers of the 20th annual Veteran's Stand Down in the Capital Region are continuing their tradition of service to veterans and their families in need next month.
Free help, including finding employment and shelter, food, clothing, medical screening, legal advice and Veterans Affairs advice regarding benefits, programs and services will be available from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, at one stop: the Colonie Elks Lodge at 11 Elks Lane, off Route 155 in Latham. Doors open at 7 a.m.
"We'll let the veteran tell us what we can do to help them have a better life," said Doug Williams, an Elks lodge member and an Stand Down organizer.
The Department of Veterans Affairs, state Division of Military and Naval Affairs, state Labor Department and the Elks lodge are organizing the Stand Down.
The VA, DMNA and Labor Department held stand downs at armories until the 9/11 terrorist attacks shut armories for public use because of security concerns. That's when the Colonie Elks stepped in to help, including providing a site.
Approximately 150 veterans were helped during the first stand down in 1988. Last year, 319 male and 19 female veterans were helped, according to Jim Aube of Latham, lodge spokesman. Most were Vietnam War and Persian Gulf War veterans, he said.
"When the veterans come through the door and register they will be greeted by 14 Albany Medical Center Hospital interns," said Williams. "The interns will ask each vet how are they doing. That gives each vet a chance to express any medical concerns that need attention."
go here for more
http://timesunion.com/AspStories/story.asp?storyID=722365
Saturday, August 9, 2008
Women, too, getting help at Stand Down
Women, too, getting help at Stand Down
By Robert Jordan
Valley Times
Article Last Updated: 08/08/2008 10:59:53 PM PDT
PLEASANTON — Renee Lyles-Creech's work is impossible to see. But the 51-year-old El Sobrante woman's marks are scattered throughout the Bay Area, buried under concrete, blocked by glass windows and covered up with paint.
A welder, Lyles-Creech's eyes light up when she talks about the trade she learned in the Navy and continued to use when she got out up until she suffered a shoulder injury in 2000.
That injury resulted in her losing full-time work; a series of traffic tickets hampered her from finding steady employment or a place to live.
She served in the service from 1974 to 1978 and patched up Sea King helicopters. After her service ended, she helped retrofit San Francisco City Hall and worked on the Bay Bridge.
Lyles-Creech is one of a growing number of woman participants at the East Bay Stand Down, hoping to find the assistance to get back on their feet.
"I just haven't been able to keep up with rent," said Lyles-Creech, who is staying with a friend in El Sobrante. "I'm in parking ticket hell. I just have surmounted so many."
This year's Stand Down drew 32 women veterans, the most since it started in 1999. According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, about 1.7 million women are among this nation's 23.5 million veterans.
click post title for more
By Robert Jordan
Valley Times
Article Last Updated: 08/08/2008 10:59:53 PM PDT
PLEASANTON — Renee Lyles-Creech's work is impossible to see. But the 51-year-old El Sobrante woman's marks are scattered throughout the Bay Area, buried under concrete, blocked by glass windows and covered up with paint.
A welder, Lyles-Creech's eyes light up when she talks about the trade she learned in the Navy and continued to use when she got out up until she suffered a shoulder injury in 2000.
That injury resulted in her losing full-time work; a series of traffic tickets hampered her from finding steady employment or a place to live.
She served in the service from 1974 to 1978 and patched up Sea King helicopters. After her service ended, she helped retrofit San Francisco City Hall and worked on the Bay Bridge.
Lyles-Creech is one of a growing number of woman participants at the East Bay Stand Down, hoping to find the assistance to get back on their feet.
"I just haven't been able to keep up with rent," said Lyles-Creech, who is staying with a friend in El Sobrante. "I'm in parking ticket hell. I just have surmounted so many."
This year's Stand Down drew 32 women veterans, the most since it started in 1999. According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, about 1.7 million women are among this nation's 23.5 million veterans.
click post title for more
Thursday, August 7, 2008
With Help of Boston University Students, Homeless Vets Stand Down
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:August 7, 2008
With Help of BU Students, Homeless Vets Stand Down(Boston) - For around 7,000 Massachusetts veterans who have defended their country abroad, the return home is plagued with homelessness and a dire need of supportive services. Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine (BUGSDM) students and staff hygienists will be part of the solution Friday, August 8, as they provide free dental screenings and information to veterans at Boston's Operation Stand Down in Clifford Park.
Operation Stand Down, named for the act of returning to a secure base camp after combat to find meals, personal hygiene care, and medical services, will provide just that.
Veterans will have access to haircuts, clothing, food, housing advice and health screenings.With good oral health increasingly recognized as a key to overall wellbeing, BUGSDM looks forward to meeting many men and woman at the event. "Whether they are looking for oral screenings, advice, or just someone to talk to, our students and staff are humbled and appreciative to be asked to be part of the Stand Down," says BUGSDM's Oral Promotion Coordinator Kathy Lituri.Veterans Benefits Clearinghouse, which organizes volunteers, asked BUGSDM to be the event's first dental care provider in 2007, when the School spoke to about 100 homeless veterans.Operation Stand Down takes place Friday, August 8 at 8 a.m. through Saturday, August 9, at 2 p.m. at Clifford Park, across from 1010 Massachusetts Avenue in Boston.
The mission of Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine is to provide excellent education to dental professionals throughout their careers; to shape the future of dental medicine and dental education through research; to offer excellent health care services to the community; to participate in community activities; and to foster a respectful and supportive environment.— 30 —Contact:Jackie Rubin, Communications SpecialistBoston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine617/638-4892, jackier@bu.edu
With Help of BU Students, Homeless Vets Stand Down(Boston) - For around 7,000 Massachusetts veterans who have defended their country abroad, the return home is plagued with homelessness and a dire need of supportive services. Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine (BUGSDM) students and staff hygienists will be part of the solution Friday, August 8, as they provide free dental screenings and information to veterans at Boston's Operation Stand Down in Clifford Park.
Operation Stand Down, named for the act of returning to a secure base camp after combat to find meals, personal hygiene care, and medical services, will provide just that.
Veterans will have access to haircuts, clothing, food, housing advice and health screenings.With good oral health increasingly recognized as a key to overall wellbeing, BUGSDM looks forward to meeting many men and woman at the event. "Whether they are looking for oral screenings, advice, or just someone to talk to, our students and staff are humbled and appreciative to be asked to be part of the Stand Down," says BUGSDM's Oral Promotion Coordinator Kathy Lituri.Veterans Benefits Clearinghouse, which organizes volunteers, asked BUGSDM to be the event's first dental care provider in 2007, when the School spoke to about 100 homeless veterans.Operation Stand Down takes place Friday, August 8 at 8 a.m. through Saturday, August 9, at 2 p.m. at Clifford Park, across from 1010 Massachusetts Avenue in Boston.
The mission of Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine is to provide excellent education to dental professionals throughout their careers; to shape the future of dental medicine and dental education through research; to offer excellent health care services to the community; to participate in community activities; and to foster a respectful and supportive environment.— 30 —Contact:Jackie Rubin, Communications SpecialistBoston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine617/638-4892, jackier@bu.edu
Saturday, August 2, 2008
Stand Down Grant Money Available
DOL-VETS Grants for Stand Down Support
Approximately $400,000 Available for Stand Downs
The U.S. Department of Labor (USDOL), Veterans' Employment and Training Service (VETS) continues to support local Stand Down events that assist homeless veterans and is now accepting applications for Stand Down grant awards. A Stand Down is an event held in a local community where homeless veterans are provided with a wide variety of social services in one location.
Under this announcement, VETS anticipates that up to $400,000 will be available in each of the three fiscal years for grant awards of up to a maximum of $10,000 per multi-day event (more than one day), and a maximum of $7,000 for a one (1) day event. VETS expects to award approximately forty-five (45) grants each fiscal year. Availability of Fiscal Year 2009, and Fiscal Year 2010 funds will be dependent upon Congressional appropriations.
http://www.veteranstoday.com/modules.php?name=News&file=article&sid=3356
Approximately $400,000 Available for Stand Downs
The U.S. Department of Labor (USDOL), Veterans' Employment and Training Service (VETS) continues to support local Stand Down events that assist homeless veterans and is now accepting applications for Stand Down grant awards. A Stand Down is an event held in a local community where homeless veterans are provided with a wide variety of social services in one location.
Under this announcement, VETS anticipates that up to $400,000 will be available in each of the three fiscal years for grant awards of up to a maximum of $10,000 per multi-day event (more than one day), and a maximum of $7,000 for a one (1) day event. VETS expects to award approximately forty-five (45) grants each fiscal year. Availability of Fiscal Year 2009, and Fiscal Year 2010 funds will be dependent upon Congressional appropriations.
http://www.veteranstoday.com/modules.php?name=News&file=article&sid=3356
Sunday, July 6, 2008
Sailors on leave aid veterans' shelter near Lake Worth
Sailors on leave aid veterans' shelter near Lake Worth
Palm Beach Post - FL, United States
By BILL DIPAOLO
Palm Beach Post Staff Writer
Saturday, July 05, 2008
Rather than cruising the mall, about two dozen Navy sailors spent their liberty time Saturday painting and landscaping a local shelter for veterans.
"It's a great honor to help these men," said sailor Ron Deau, 22, taking a break at the Stand Down House in suburban Lake Worth. "If it wasn't for them, we wouldn't have America."
The cleanup was a big morale boost for the residents, said Vietnam veteran P.J. Connolly. The 59-year-old Army veteran had been homeless and living in the Everglades before he came to Stand Down seven months ago.
"We really appreciate their help. These guys could be at the beach. This means a lot," Connolly said.
The motivation for the cleanup started while the sailors were aboard the USS Doyle off the coast of Africa several weeks ago. They wanted to return the good feeling they had gotten from the care packages their families sent them. They contacted the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, which put them in touch with Stand Down, said sailor Tim Clay, a 23-year-old from Madison, Wis.
"Some of these veterans think nobody cares about them. Well, we wanted to show them that people do care," Clay said during his lunch break.
The 28-bed shelter, on Davis Road near the Lake Worth Drive-In, was started in 2000 to help the growing number of homeless veterans. About 200,000 veterans nationwide are homeless, according to Veterans Affairs.
More than 19,000 live in Florida, and between 1,000 and 2,000 live in the woods and in abandoned buildings in Palm Beach County, said Casimiro Hampton-Crockett, Stand Down's administrative director.
"We already have a big homeless population here in Palm Beach County. Now we're expecting a big increase from the next generation of veterans from Iraq," Hampton-Crockett said.
click above for more
Palm Beach Post - FL, United States
By BILL DIPAOLO
Palm Beach Post Staff Writer
Saturday, July 05, 2008
Rather than cruising the mall, about two dozen Navy sailors spent their liberty time Saturday painting and landscaping a local shelter for veterans.
"It's a great honor to help these men," said sailor Ron Deau, 22, taking a break at the Stand Down House in suburban Lake Worth. "If it wasn't for them, we wouldn't have America."
The cleanup was a big morale boost for the residents, said Vietnam veteran P.J. Connolly. The 59-year-old Army veteran had been homeless and living in the Everglades before he came to Stand Down seven months ago.
"We really appreciate their help. These guys could be at the beach. This means a lot," Connolly said.
The motivation for the cleanup started while the sailors were aboard the USS Doyle off the coast of Africa several weeks ago. They wanted to return the good feeling they had gotten from the care packages their families sent them. They contacted the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, which put them in touch with Stand Down, said sailor Tim Clay, a 23-year-old from Madison, Wis.
"Some of these veterans think nobody cares about them. Well, we wanted to show them that people do care," Clay said during his lunch break.
The 28-bed shelter, on Davis Road near the Lake Worth Drive-In, was started in 2000 to help the growing number of homeless veterans. About 200,000 veterans nationwide are homeless, according to Veterans Affairs.
More than 19,000 live in Florida, and between 1,000 and 2,000 live in the woods and in abandoned buildings in Palm Beach County, said Casimiro Hampton-Crockett, Stand Down's administrative director.
"We already have a big homeless population here in Palm Beach County. Now we're expecting a big increase from the next generation of veterans from Iraq," Hampton-Crockett said.
click above for more
Saturday, May 31, 2008
Stand Down Tucson for Homeless Veterans
Saturday Stand Down helps homeless vets
SHERYL KORNMAN
Tucson Citizen
Homeless Army veteran Joseph Battle said he’d rather keep on living in his pickup truck than give up his dog to get into subsidized housing.
“This is companionship,” he said Saturday morning at a Department of Veterans Affairs-sponsored “Stand Down” here.
Saturday's Stand Down, underwritten in part by Wal-Mart, Tucson Electric Power and Tucson Truck Driving School, was organized by the local group Tucson Veterans Serving Veterans.
Stand Downs give homeless vets a chance to rest, get in out of the heat, shower, get a haircut, a meal, a sleeping bag, new boots and sunglasses.
Perhaps more important, the Stand Down Saturday gave veterans access to about 20 social service providers and to employment services.
A banner reading “Welcome Home Veterans” was draped across the entrance to the event at the U.S. Army Reserve Center, 1750 E. Silverlake Road. It began at 8 a.m. and was scheduled to end at 2 p.m.
“We want you to be happy, safe and healthy,” said Mary Pat Sullivan, director of Comin’ Home, a nonprofit that provides housing to homeless vets.
She welcomed the veterans after a Color Guard ceremony in the building’s cafeteria.
Battle, 49, said Buddy, his 14-month-old Shepherd-Chow mix, is important to his wellbeing and said most landlords won’t rent to him because of the large dog.
Battle panhandles for a living.
He said he has emphysema – though he still smokes – hepatitis C, arthritis and two compressed discs. He’s been trying for years to get on Social Security disability, he said.
He collects food stamps and gets his medical care at the Veterans Affairs hospital.
He has a 14-year-old daughter living in the Tucson area and he hasn’t seen her in about 10 years. “I’d like to see her,” Battle said.
go here for more
http://www.tucsoncitizen.com/daily/local/86913.php
SHERYL KORNMAN
Tucson Citizen
Homeless Army veteran Joseph Battle said he’d rather keep on living in his pickup truck than give up his dog to get into subsidized housing.
“This is companionship,” he said Saturday morning at a Department of Veterans Affairs-sponsored “Stand Down” here.
Saturday's Stand Down, underwritten in part by Wal-Mart, Tucson Electric Power and Tucson Truck Driving School, was organized by the local group Tucson Veterans Serving Veterans.
Stand Downs give homeless vets a chance to rest, get in out of the heat, shower, get a haircut, a meal, a sleeping bag, new boots and sunglasses.
Perhaps more important, the Stand Down Saturday gave veterans access to about 20 social service providers and to employment services.
A banner reading “Welcome Home Veterans” was draped across the entrance to the event at the U.S. Army Reserve Center, 1750 E. Silverlake Road. It began at 8 a.m. and was scheduled to end at 2 p.m.
“We want you to be happy, safe and healthy,” said Mary Pat Sullivan, director of Comin’ Home, a nonprofit that provides housing to homeless vets.
She welcomed the veterans after a Color Guard ceremony in the building’s cafeteria.
Battle, 49, said Buddy, his 14-month-old Shepherd-Chow mix, is important to his wellbeing and said most landlords won’t rent to him because of the large dog.
Battle panhandles for a living.
He said he has emphysema – though he still smokes – hepatitis C, arthritis and two compressed discs. He’s been trying for years to get on Social Security disability, he said.
He collects food stamps and gets his medical care at the Veterans Affairs hospital.
He has a 14-year-old daughter living in the Tucson area and he hasn’t seen her in about 10 years. “I’d like to see her,” Battle said.
go here for more
http://www.tucsoncitizen.com/daily/local/86913.php
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
Camp Algonquin Stand Down For Homeless Vets
St. Rep. Linda Chapa LaVia Speaks to Veterans at Camp Algonquin Stand Down
- posted by Cal Skinner
This may be the last time the Veterans Stand Down sponsored by Crystal Lake's NASA Education may occur at Camp Algonquin.
It's not because yesterday's event, the fourth at Camp Algonquin, was a failure.
Just the opposite.
The over 200 veterans, many homeless, filled the camp on the Fox River.
go here for the rest
http://capitalfax.blogspot.com/2008/04/st-rep-linda-chapa-lavia-speaks-to.html
Some people will read this and think how sad it is, while others will read it and think how wonderful it is that so many people do really care about our homeless veterans. Both would be right. It's sad that in this nation any veteran would be homeless. It is wrong! The goodness of some people offer hope that one day, if enough people care, no one will ever serve this country again and end up homeless.
- posted by Cal Skinner
This may be the last time the Veterans Stand Down sponsored by Crystal Lake's NASA Education may occur at Camp Algonquin.
It's not because yesterday's event, the fourth at Camp Algonquin, was a failure.
Just the opposite.
The over 200 veterans, many homeless, filled the camp on the Fox River.
go here for the rest
http://capitalfax.blogspot.com/2008/04/st-rep-linda-chapa-lavia-speaks-to.html
Some people will read this and think how sad it is, while others will read it and think how wonderful it is that so many people do really care about our homeless veterans. Both would be right. It's sad that in this nation any veteran would be homeless. It is wrong! The goodness of some people offer hope that one day, if enough people care, no one will ever serve this country again and end up homeless.
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