Latest news with #StandDown
Yahoo
21-03-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Volusia County hosts annual ‘Stand Down' event to support veterans
The Ocean Center is hosting the annual 'Stand Down' event to support veterans on Friday and Saturday. Organizers said the event offers vital resources to veterans in need. The event provides services like housing assistance, medical care, job opportunities, and VA benefits, aiming to help homeless veterans and foster camaraderie among all veterans. Scott Olson, Interim Director of Volusia County Veterans Services, said, 'This event focuses on homeless veterans here in Volusia County, trying to provide them with vital resources to help them better their lives.' Veterans attending expressed gratitude for the wide range of services. 'For years I didn't even realize this was a thing,' explained William Pratt. 'I mean, I was out of the service for almost two decades before I found out I even had medical care.' Highlights included the Veterans Benefits Administration's Mobile Compensation Unit, which offered on-site claims exams, and the distribution of over 300 bags of food by Second Harvest Food Bank. Organizers stress that help continues year-round at four Volusia County offices—in Daytona, New Smyrna, Deltona, and DeLand—where veterans can connect with benefits anytime. For veterans like Pratt, the event is a lifeline. 'I'm praying that this is going to help me be able to retire because you know you can't live on social security,' he said. The overwhelming response highlights the need for such initiatives. As one attendee put it: 'This is desperately needed when you see veterans living out in the streets with no food, no medicine.' If you miss going on Friday, it runs tomorrow from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
Yahoo
14-03-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Phoenix area veterans gather for annual StandDown event
The Brief The annual Veterans StandDown event took place at Arizona State Fairgrounds on March 13. The event offers veterans with various resources, including legal. PHOENIX - On March 13, hundreds of veterans gathered at the Arizona State Fairgrounds near Downtown Phoenix for annual Veterans StandDown event. This event has been going on since 2001, and provides veterans with various resources. The event lasts from March 13 to March 14. One of the resources offered to people at the event is legal services. Judges in black robes were seen presiding over a makeshift courtroom, as people wait in line for their turn. Army veteran Joseph Matthews says it's a godsend. What Matthews Said "It's been a big help to me in my life because where else can we meet with people, get our problems solved, and come together as a community to help each other?" Matthews said. Attorneys like David Hintze with the Office of the Public Defender, along with Deputy County Attorney Denise O'Rourke, formed a unique partnership for the StandDown. What they're saying "We are trying to restore them to where they were when they were that person that said 'hey. I'm giving myself to this country,' and so whatever little piece we can do and be a part of that, I am honored to help," said Hintze. "It feels incredible," said O'Rourke. "Like, it sends chills down my spine. It's just the best feeling in the world." Dig deeper The opposing sides came together to help veterans resolve outstanding misdemeanors or fines. Judge Scott Blaney, who is also a 28-year Army veteran, said clearing up these seemingly trivial legal issues can fundamentally change lives. "If someone has a criminal record or fines where they can't get their rights restored, probably the best example is would be the ability to get a driver's license," said Judge Blaney. "If you can't get to work, you can't work. If you can't work, you can't support yourself. So it's kind of a spiraling effect. So we try to remove those minor impediments." Judge Blaney sees a pressing need, reflected by the large Thursday crowds. "It's very difficult for veterans to seek help," said Judge Blaney. "We are taught to be tough. We are taught to be self sufficient, self-disciplined. And so when they need help, they don't reach out." That is why commissioners and Justices of the Peace from across the Phoenix area said they're honored to help. "This is our big thank you to them for all the work they have already done," said Maricopa County Justice of the Peace Michele Reagan. "To be able to give back to our veterans is just invaluable for their service," said Commissioner Kristian Morales.
