SAN ANGELO, Texas — The San Angelo Elks Lodge No. 1880 will host a Veterans Stand Down for homeless veterans from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Jan. 24, at 2121 S. Chadbourne St.
Laura Ozuna is working with the local homeless coalition to ensure the invitation is issued to all homeless veterans in time for the event. She is also making arrangements for transportation for these veterans.
There will be food, services and resources available for veterans. Attendees are asked to bring a copy of DD 214s, military ID cards or your Veterans Affairs ID cards. If there are veterans who do not have any of these documents, please have them visit with lodge members at the event for assistance in acquiring these items.
Some of the organizations that will be available to help: the Alcohol & Drug Abuse Council of the Concho Valley; Concho Valley Council of Governments; Concho Valley Transit; Concho Valley Women’s Veterans; La Esperanza Clinic; Legal Aid of North West Texas; MVPN; San Angelo Housing Authority; Supportive Services for Veterans Families; Texas Veterans Commission (VA claims); Concho Valley Workforce Solutions; Vet Center; VA (benefits, registration for health care, suicide prevention and substance abuse).
"We serve nearly 600 veterans through-out the year between housing and homeless veterans through the reintegration program, and we have a heart to serve veterans who have served us, I think, it's part of what we do and why we do what we do, and anyone who has the opportunity to serve a veteran,” Ericka English, of Volunteers of America Texas communications director, said.
Anyone who has served in the United States Armed Forces can attend to find out what the VA and other community resources are available.
“The purpose, of these events is again to allow a veteran, who identify as a veteran to come in and be like a one-stop-shop. To be able to receive access to care and services as well as for us to reach out in the community and star veterans, “Nickie Starkey, West Texas VA Health Care System, said.
Anyone who knows of a veteran that does not have permanent housing is asked to let them know about this event.
Those in need transportation to the event should contact Laura Ozuna at 432-213-5796.
For additional information, contact the Elks Lodge at 325-227-6920.
