SAN ANGELO, Texas — As Veterans Day approaches, many former servicemembers might be in extra need of support and supplies.
The holidays can bring a great number of challenges from financial needs to mental health help, and this is especially true for the homeless community.
On Nov. 3, the San Angelo United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), San Angelo Elks Lodge 1880 and the Military Veteran Peer Network hosted the annual Veteran Stand Down event, providing resources and a free meal for those in the West Texas region.
"So this is a great partnership with the VA and the community, so the VA can't do it alone, they have a lot of great programs but they can't do it alone," Texas Veteran Resource Information Specialist Luiz Martinez said. "So that's why it takes a community, say, 'Hey, we got these resources, as well,' and that's why the West Texas VA, they love San Angelo because we have so many resources for Veterans. San Angelo's a community that likes to help so that's what makes our community the best."
The event was held at the San Angelo Veterans of Foreign Wars building, 125 S. Browning St.
Resource tables including the Abilene Vet Center, Rust Street Ministries, the Concho Valley Community Action Agency and more were all set up with fliers and information for those who were interested.
Military gear, blankets, jackets and additional supplies were also available, which Martinez noted the importance of especially ahead of the winter season.
Approximately 80 attendees visited the VFW throughout the event and with holidays nearby, Martinez stressed the significance of supporting former military members.
"Veterans Day, it brings up a lot of emotions, a lot of memories from the time they served and sometimes it's not very good emotions," he said. "So we need to make sure that we have their back."
Holidays like Thanksgiving, Hanukkah and Christmas might amplify depression symptoms and Martinez wants veterans to know they're not alone.
"They know where to go for help and then we never let anyone down, we treat 'em like family 'cuz they are family," he said.
Visit SanAngeloVeterans for more information.