More than 100 community organizations helped provide services and relief to at-risk veterans and their families at the 2nd Annual Stand Down, held Nov. 10 in Lafayette, Ind.
The Military Family Research Institute participated with many others in planning the event, where more than 400 homeless, almost homeless and at-risk veterans and family members were given access to many benefits. These benefits included: employment and housing opportunities; résumé-writing assistance; information pertaining to VA benefits; health care; personal and spiritual counseling; groceries; free calls; clothing; hygiene kits; haircuts; backpacks; bus and phone cards; and home mortgage assistance.
Dozens of local organizations participated, as did students, members of veterans' service organizations, a wide variety of faith-based organizations, the city of Lafayette, Lafayette's mayor and Indiana state representatives.
"This one event reached more than 1,000 people in our community," said Martina Sternberg, assistant director of MFRI. "Through it, local organizations collaborated to provide much-needed assistance to veterans and their families, and many of our volunteers shared that they were thankful for the opportunity to help those who have helped our country. It was a fitting way to celebrate Veterans Day weekend."
In addition to serving at-risk veterans and their families, the Stand Down is a service learning opportunity. Last year more than 100 volunteered, including students from Purdue and Ivy Tech. This year, more than 110 volunteers signed in to help at the event, while more than 100 others participated by offering donations, holding fundraisers and participating in an American Legion bike rally to raise money for the Stand Down. More than 40 nursing faculty and students helped with health screenings, and students from Purdue's counseling psychology program provided direct services to the at-risk families in attendance.