(MT) – Hundreds of homeless veterans will be provided with a broad range of
necessities at the East County Veterans Stand Down.

The event will take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 21 at The
Chapel, 27132 Stark Street in Troutdale.

Registration starts at 9 a.m. and a free lunch will be provided from noon to 2
p.m.

The Stand Down will provide access for vets to food, clothing, medical, legal
and mental health assistance, job counseling and referral, and companionship.
Vets are encouraged to bring along their four-legged friends for wellness
exams, vaccines, toenail trims and ear cleaning by Banfield Pet Hospital.
For homeless veterans on the Mountain, bus passes are available at the
Hoodland Library. Those needing a ride are encouraged to contact Eileen at
503-753-2179.

Last year’s Stand Down served 189 veterans, 11 received haircuts, six
received dental care, 45 got legal advice, and 34 pets – mainly dogs –
received veterinary care.

Thirty-five service providers were on hand and 225 volunteers gave their time
to the extraordinary event.

The first Stand Down was held in San Diego in 1988, and the popularity of the
event grew steadily to 190 events being held each year throughout the
country.

Volunteers can sign up for the Stand Down by email to:
stand_down@thechapelonline.org.