Noteboom The Law Firm

16th Annual Homeless Veterans Stand Down a Success

March 25, 2011 - The Florida National Guard Armory was the scene of the 16th Annual Homeless Veterans Stand Down. Approximately 275 veterans attended the Central Florida event, which lasted just one day. Stand downs are held so homeless veterans have a chance to collect necessary personal items and get help filing for any veterans benefits they may be eligible to receive.

Along with a large group of community volunteers, contributing organizations included:

• The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA);
• The Brevard Veterans Memorial Center; and
• local veterans' organizations.

The annual stand down is more like a reunion than a typical stand down event. The Brevard County Sheriff's Office, Rockledge police, and Cocoa police all donated bicycles for the veterans. Services and help offered at the 16^th Annual Stand Down included:

• Food;
• Haircuts;
• Medical, dental, and eye exams;
• Help with VA disability claims; and
• Counseling.

Some veterans were given rides between the stand down and various homeless camps so they could transport their personal items back to their camp. The veterans were given bags, clothing, tarps, boots, and other necessities. Veterans' organizations noticed more of a need for help this year and increased the amount of volunteers they sent. As they expected, more veterans than in past years showed up needing assistance.