Sarasota Stand Down for Homeless Vets
FLVCS was a co-sponsor along with Jewish Family and Community Services, Salvation Army and several other agencies of a Stand Down for homeless veterans in Sarasota on Saturday, April 20, 2013 The Stand Down put a smile on the face of approximately 100 homeless veterans (and some non-vet homeless). Here is a list of some of the goods and services provided:
Supplies:
Boots, Blankets, Breakfast cereals, Clothing (from socks, shirts, raincoats), Duffel bags, Food (meals ready to eat),Laundry bags, Poncho liners, Toiletries (shaving gear, toothbrushes, toothpaste), Towels, Sleeping bags, Snack boxes, Water, Waterproof bags.
Services Provided:
Haircuts, Manicures, Help for substance and Alcohol Abuse, Help obtaining Military Records and ID/s, Legal services,Housing assistance, Job counseling and employment assistance, Physical and mental health screening.
The Salvation Army served food from their canteen truck and VA had counselors on site.
The event was a huge success that will help a few veterans back on their feet to once again make a positive contribution to our community. The only thing most homeless veterans need is a little help from the rest of us. We observe that only a very few homeless veterans are not motivated to help themselves.
Of course, some homeless vets suffer from mental and/or physical disability through no fault of their own. These unfortunate individuals will never be self-supporting and will need our continuous help. We do not begrudge that help—they have earned and deserve it. After all, as veterans we recognize that given a slight change of circumstances, any one of us could be on the other side of the table.
We are proud to report that FLVCS volunteers were numerous and hard working. Many FLVCS personnel devoted nearly two full days to make the event run smoothly.