Helping Homeless Veterans Living On the Treasure Coast
| PORT ST. LUCIE, FL – This afternoon, CareerSource Research Coast, along with the help of community partners, hosted the Treasure Coast Homeless Veterans Stand Down at the Port St. Lucie Community Center. The initiative was put together to provide veterans with complimentary resources and basic necessities such as food, clothing, dental screenings, legal services, mental health counseling, haircuts, hygiene products, and military supply items.For the month leading up to the Stand Down, representatives from CareerSource Research Coast went out to local homeless shelters, parks, and wooded areas to talk to the homeless veterans population and inform them about the event.
There were four pick up locations in Martin County were veterans could get a ride to the Port St. Lucie Community Center, and complimentary bus rides were also provided in Saint Lucie County.
More than 27 organizations were present offering services and support. Among them were the Veterans Affairs offices from Martin and Saint Lucie counties, House A Vet, Treasure Coast Homeless Services Council, and Sara’s Kitchen, West Palm Beach Medical Center, Indian River State College, the Port St. Lucie Department of Children and Families, St. Lucie County Community Services and Transit Department, and the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 1041.
“I’m glad I was able to be a part of this great day,” said Jose Ruiz of LeGit Cuts Barbershop, one of the barbers providing veterans with free hair cuts.
As stated by the National Coalition for Homeless Veterans, “The original Stand Down for homeless veterans was modeled after the Stand Down concept used during the Vietnam War to provide a safe retreat for units returning from combat operations. At secure base camp areas, troops were able to take care of personal hygiene, get clean uniforms, enjoy warm meals, receive medical and dental care, mail and receive letters, and enjoy the camaraderie of friends in a safe environment. Stand Down afforded battle-weary soldiers the opportunity to renew their spirit, health and overall sense of well-being.”
“We’re really happy to see how many people came together to help out veterans in need,” said Jose Tabar, Veteran Employment Representative at CareerSource Research Coast. “We couldn’t have done this without the support of the community and local vendors. It was a great event and we’re happy to have hosted it.”
To view photos from this great event click here.
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