With the Idaho economy in one of its deepest downturns in decades, the Idaho Department of Labor and a number of its partners are offering a broad range of assistance to military veterans at a special event this month.
The 2009 North Idaho Veterans Stand Down offers veterans “a hand up, not a hand out” as they cope with serious problems including life on the streets. The event is Aug. 29 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the National Guard Armory, 5555 E. Seltice Way.
“These men and women have sacrificed much to protect the freedoms we enjoy,” Department of Labor Veterans Representative Robert Shoeman said. “The least we can do is step forward with a helping hand when they need.”
In addition to meals being served from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., veterans will have access to medical care, showers, clothing, haircuts, toiletries, food and fresh produce plus representatives of organizations who can provide them future services.
Veterans need only bring their DD214, a Veterans Administration card or a military identification to participate.
Over 850 veterans and their families participated in last year’s Stand Down at the Post Falls armory.
The Stand Down is organized by the by the Labor Department, the Idaho National Guard, the St. Vincent de Paul Society and the Health Care for Homeless Veterans program.
For more information, call (208) 769-1558 extensions 3993 or 3998.