Veterans Stand Down

Veterans can connect with community resources, get a haircut, and pick up free food and clothing during Volusia County’s Veterans Stand Down from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. March 20 and 21 at The Center at Deltona, 1640 Dr. MLK Blvd., Deltona.

This popular annual event is coordinated by Volusia County’s Veterans Services Division to provide vital resources, services, and support to local veterans who are experiencing homelessness or need assistance with Veterans Administration (VA) benefits.

Veterans and their families can access these services:

• Assistance with VA claims
• Health and wellness screenings
• Legal assistance
• Employment resources
• Housing support and referrals
• Free haircuts, clothing, and food

The Veterans Benefits Administration will be on-site with its Mobile Compensation and Pension Exam Unit. Veterans with pending claims can complete their exams on-site and potentially receive a decision on their claims.

Other participating agencies are the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Supportive Services for Veteran Families, Florida Department of Health Volusia, Volusia County Human Resources, VITAS Healthcare, CareerSource Flagler Volusia, Daytona State College, and the Daytona Beach Vet Center.

Sponsorship opportunities are available through Pay it Forward Packs for $500, $750 and $1,500. Learn more at www.volusia.org/standdown. For more information about the event or Volusia County Veterans Services, contact Scott Olson at 386-740-5102 or veteransinfo@volusia.org.

Two or more Volusia County Council members plan to attend this event.

Did you know? Today’s stand downs are modeled after the stand down concept used during the Vietnam War to provide a safe retreat for units returning from combat. At a secure base camp, troops were able to take care of personal hygiene, get clean uniforms, enjoy warm meals, receive medical and dental care, mail and receive letters, and enjoy the camaraderie of friends in a safe environment.