Veteran's organizations in partnership with various community agencies and volunteers will host the first annual Foothills Homeless Veterans Stand Down on April 20, 2012. This event will be held at the Hickory American Legion Fairgrounds located at 1127 US Hwy 70, Newton N.C. 28658 from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm.
Our nation's estimated 107,000 homeless veterans (1,500 in Western North Carolina) "combat" life on the streets every day. "Stand Down" is a military term used to describe a time when a soldier can rest, relax, and renew before returning to duty. Stand Down also refers to a grassroots, community-based intervention program designed to provide those who served our country an opportunity to renew their spirits, health, and overall sense of well being.
The first annual Foothills Homeless Veteran's Stand Down will include Alexander, Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, Cleveland, Iredell, Wilkes, and surrounding counties. It will bring homeless veterans together for a day to provide access to community resources needed to address individual problems and to help rebuild lives. Resources will include Veteran's benefits information and assistance, breakfast and lunch, hot showers, clothing, haircuts, eye care, medical and dental services.
We need your help! Your tax deductible financial gift will help us reach homeless veterans in this area who are struggling with substance abuse, mental illness, and serious health problems. We also need donations of new or used clothing in excellent condition, new socks, undergarments, and personal hygiene items.