Stand Down group plans outreach for needy veterans

Feb. 13, 2007

MAT-SU - The Anchorage Stand Down Committee will host a midwinter veterans outreach for veterans in need at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Domiciliary, 3001 C Street in Anchorage, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday.

The event will include tours of the VA Domiciliary, a chance to interact with veterans enrolled in the program, a chili feed and a winter clothing issue.

&#8220No matter where they are coming from, including the Valley, we want to show we are here to help these folks out,” said C.W. Floyd, chairperson of Stand Down Inc.

The event is meant to lend a helping hand with a hot meal and winter clothing, Floyd said. It is also a way to find out about services the VA Domiciliary program has to offer without making a commitment to stay.

&#8220It has been our experience, hearing from many veterans who have gone through the VA Domiciliary program, that they express surprise at the services available and the difference it has made in their lives, with the only regret being not having come sooner,” said Dr. James Fitterling, chief of the VA's Homeless Veteran Service.

On-site registration will be available for homeless veterans who do not have a VA ID card or for those who may have lost their VA ID card.

Homeless veterans are similar to soldiers in combat, with some living in the woods or out of their cars, still surviving by their wits, with limited food and extreme conditions.

Life &#8220on the streets” is dangerous and debilitating.

Every day on the streets is another day in combat for the veteran, according to veterans advocates.

Free transportation will be provided by People Mover for veterans with a VA ID card. The committee is seeking donations of socks, gloves, caps and long underwear.

Donations will be accepted by VA Voluntary Service at the Alaska VA Healthcare System Outpatient Clinic, 2925 DeBarr Road.

More information about

the event can be obtained

from C.W. Floyd at (907) 230-2626, or Marcia Hoffman-DeVoe, VA Public Affairs, at (907) 257-5490.

Interested persons also can call the Wasilla Veteran's Center at 376-4318.