Veterans 'stand-down' for helping hand

FORT COLLINS - Dozens of veterans from across Northern Colorado turned out Tuesday to "stand-down" and accept thanks for their service and a helping hand.

For those down on their luck, the third annual event was a chance to enjoy a hot meal, pick up some free gear, get a haircut and chat with fellow veterans at Catholic Charities Northern-The Mission in Fort Collins.

"I'm here to see some friends, some I don't even know," said Charles Medina of Greeley as he looked through a box of donated shoes. "But it's good to meet them and hear what they have to say."

The veterans also were provided free seasonal flu immunizations, basic dental care, cancer screenings and mental health counseling. The event was expected to draw 100 to 150 veterans, said organizer Sharon Lindell of the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment.

While targeted at veterans who are homeless or on the verge of becoming homeless, any veteran in need was invited, she said. Word of the event was spread through charitable organizations and veterans groups.

"It's kind of a day for the veterans to come in and stand down," Lindell said. "They can get off the streets and come somewhere safe to be welcome and honored for their service to our country."

Veterans received gift cards to local grocery stores and lists of restaurant that will be offering free meals today and on Thanksgiving. Representatives from various federal, state and county offices were on hand to talk to the veterans about ongoing services for which they may be eligible.

Medina, 59, served with the Army and the 173rd Airborne Division in Vietnam. While not homeless, Medina said he's struggling to get by and can't find work as a roofer. He's still waiting on unemployment benefits to come through.

He's familiar with VA benefits and plans to soon enter a program for post-traumatic stress syndrome. His family has encouraged him to enter the program after years of "drinking and drugging."

"I'm hoping it will help," he said.

Participating organizations included the federal Department of Veterans Affairs and local agencies such as the Salvation Army, the Veteran Center and the Larimer County Workforce Center and Veterans Service.

"This type of event helps to bridge the gap for many people who are in need," said Andrew Ruben, public affairs officer with the Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Cheyenne.

J.T. Mason of Fort Collins said he heard about the stand-down from a friend. He was glad to receive the gifts and learn what services for which he might qualify.

"It's definitely real helpful," he said.

Colorado had 2,983 homeless veterans on any given night in 2008, according to the National Alliance to End Homelessness. Nationally, an estimated 131,230 veterans were homeless at any given time with 336,627 homeless at some point during the year.

This story written by Kevin Duggan, Fort Collins Coloradoan.