FLVCS can be proud that we have co-sponsored another successful Homeless Veteran Stand Down in Sarasota this weekend (4/26/14). The count is not official, but we’re confident that more than 200 homeless veterans were helped by the good work of FLVCS and the other participating organizations.

 

 

FLVCS helped initiate the first stand down in Sarasota several years although we were told it was unnecessary and a duplication of the one in Manatee County. Thank goodness we proceeded on. Hundreds of homeless veterans have been helped as a result.

 

At all the stand downs, we also help homeless people who are not veterans. Once the homeless veterans have had first shot at the personal goods available at the stand down such as blankets, clothing, personal hygiene items, duffel bags, shoes, food, etc., other homeless individuals are given the opportunity to receive the items as long as they last.

 

At this stand down, our volunteers noted an interesting circumstance, i.e., the homeless veterans seemed to be more polite and appreciative than the general homeless population. This observation seems to confirm what many of us believe, i.e., most homeless vets are motivated to be productive, contributing members of society and given the opportunity, and a little help, they will be despite setbacks.  

 

A heartfelt thank you to all the agencies and fine organizations that helped with the Stand Down. The Yale Club worked with us for the first time this year and did yeoman’s service. 

 

FLVCS members and supporters carried the ball from unloading trucks, helping to coordinate the event, passing out goods, and much more. Well done FLVCS members and supporters.

 

Special Kudos to Alice Gochberg. Alice was the FLVCS liaison to the other sponsoring organizations this year and she worked extra hard to make the stand down a success.