For the fourth year, the Disabled American Veterans and Department of Veterans Affairs, in partnership with local organizations and businesses, will host the Southwest Colorado “Stand Down” for area veterans on Thursday to show community support and offer a welcoming, helpful environment.
The event will provide support, supplies and services, with hot meals served all day, from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at La Plata County Fairgrounds, 2500 Main Ave. Attending businesses and organizations, so far, will include Adaptive Sports Association, Colorado Workforce, area American Legions and Zuke’s for those with pets. Healing Touch of Durango will also offer alternative healing and acupuncture.
Volunteers were able to house 30 veterans for the night the first year the event was held. Last year, more than 125 veterans were provided services. Those without homes were given additional attention and items to assist them through the winter months, such as housing referrals, jobs, education, food, clothing, sleeping bags, backpacks and more.
More providers and area veterans are expected to attend this year’s event than in years past.
Volunteers can assist with: job referrals, Social Security benefits, housing assistance, food and gas vouchers, transportation, library cards, social services, hot meals, clothing, medical services, physical- and mental-health screenings, dental, vision, hearing, haircuts, education, legal advice, spiritual, counseling, substance abuse, taxes and hygiene.
To volunteer, call Janna Schaefer at 749-1673 or Peggy Schroder at 247-8589.
fstone@durangoherald.com
