Veterans Inc. to Hold 8th Annual Stand Down in Central Mass.
Friday, June 14, 2013
Stand Down is one of Veterans Inc. premier events designed to provide for in need veterans.
Veterans Inc. in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, U.S. Department of Labor (Veterans’ Employment and Training Service), and other local agencies will hold the 8th Annual Veterans Inc. Stand Down on the 14th and 15th of June. The event will take place at Veterans Inc., 59 South Street in Shrewsbury and will run from 9 am to 4 pm on Friday, and 9 am to 12 pm on Saturday.
More than 2,100 Veterans and their families have received assistance at Veterans Inc. Stand Downs since the event’s inception in 2006. The event provides counseling and substance abuse referrals, employment and training, healthcare services, housing resources, legal services, wellness activities, and a career fair. Veterans and their families will also be able to receive free clothing, meals, haircuts, and personal care items. Over 40 providers will be in attendance at this year's event. Raffle prizes and giveaways will also be available.
“We could not host this event without the participation of service provider partners and the support of our community leaders. They are a vital part of the event’s success” said Vincent Perrone, Veterans Inc. President & CEO. “It shows these men and women that they have not been forgotten.”
“The Stand Down is a crucial part of our service offering,” said Denis Leary, Veterans Inc. Executive Director.
“Veterans can get many of the services they need all at the same place while recalling the sense of camaraderie that they experienced while in the military which can help motivate them in their time of need.”
The Origin and Purpose of Stand Down
Stand Down is a term that originated during the Vietnam War used to describe the practice of removing combat troops from the field and taking care of their basic needs in a safe area. According to the National Coalition for Homeless Veterans, the Stand Down was “a safe retreat for units returning from combat operations” where troops had access to clean uniforms, warm meals, medical and dental care, mail, and camaraderie, all in a safe environment.
"The chief reason veterans should attend is to know what they can receive being a veteran with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs who will be onsite and to receive that one on one attention and the support they need to help move forward," says Amanda Riik, Public Relations and Outreach Manager for Veterans Inc.
But this event also has direct tangible benefits for the local community as a whole, not just veterans but truly all involved, according to Riik.
"This event brings providers together from all over the State of Massachusetts to not just help the veteran but to also connect the providers throughout the state and bring them to the Worcester County area."
The Stand Down is open to homeless and in-need veterans and their families. All services and items are provided free of charge. Veterans should bring a DD-214 or VA card as proof of veteran status. Vist the Veterans Inc. website at www.veteransinc.org or The Veterans Inc. Facebook page for the latest up to date information
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