The Veterans Stand Down event this Friday September 22nd is designed to give hope to local Veterans.  The gathering at the Sioux Falls VFW is intended for all Veterans as it also has specific resources to assist Veterans struggling with homelessness.

Doors for the event start at 9:00 AM till 2:00 PM at the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 628 at 3601 S. Minnesota Avenue. A free meal welcomes Veterans and their families. Assistance with clothing, community housing referrals, medical triage, readjustment counseling, legal assistance, and financial  information will be available.

Organizer Chuck Albrecht says the term Stand Down originates from the Civil War.  "After a battle, soldiers would go to the rear area for medical assistance, spiritual counseling, talk to those who survived the latest battle and write letters to loved ones and think of home." says Albrecht.  "Some of today's Veterans fight the battle of homelessness on the streets, living in a car or existing in a place not fit for humans.  Our yearly Stand Down event offers them food, counseling, medical attention, clothing and above all HOPE from the Sioux Falls V.A. Medical Center, Sioux Falls Veteran Center and a host of other vendors who really care for these Veterans."

The Sioux Falls VA Health Care System, Sioux Falls Vet Center, area Veterans service organizations and businesses sponsor this annual gathering. Contact the Sioux Falls Vet Center for more details at 605-330-4552.

 

 

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