The Atlanta Veterans Administration Medical Center in Decatur, Ga., is running its Homeless Stand Down on Oct. 3. The VA Medical Center is conducting this event as a way to reach out to homeless veterans and provide them access to a wide range of services such as food, medical care, legal counseling, mental health services, employment and other information. This is a great idea to meet a need that otherwise would go unnoticed.
I learned of this through a contact from the Elks Lodge Number 111 in Columbus. They will be gathering supplies to take to the medical center in Decatur prior to the Oct. 3 event.
The VA will be passing out sweatshirts, sweatpants, caps, gloves, gift cards, soap, hand sanitizer, shampoo, razors, first aid kits and other items. The VA will also use lots of coffee, paper products, towels and shaving kits to support the services provided on Oct. 3. The list from the VA includes games like chess, checkers, cards, Sudoku and crossword puzzles.
Most veterans have success in life after their service. Veterans learn life lessons quickly and master a range of managerial skills that other people do not. Nonetheless, some veterans have trouble in regular society.
Wartime experiences might have made the adjustment to civilian life difficult. An injury can make working difficult or force a major change in plans. All of us still owe a thank you to the people who put their lives on the line for the nation. It’s good to help anyone who is having trouble.
If more people helped those around us we might not have some of the troubles in society that we have. I also think it’s especially worthwhile to help veterans. Veterans have already extended their helping hand to the nation. The least we can do is help those in trouble now. Therefore, this project is a kind and generous act worth supporting.
The Elks will be gathering supplies between now and Sept. 24. If you are willing to help, the best course would be to call the Elks at 706-569-6720.
Lodge 111 is located at 5768 Miller Court. That’s just off Miller Road near the fuel tank facility. The office is open 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday. The club operating hours are 3-10 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday.
You can drop off supplies or monetary contributions during those hours. If you will be in the Atlanta area and want to help, please contact the VA’s volunteer services office at 404-728-7728 or the American Legion post at 678-401-4917.
I encourage all of you to show that you care and help homeless veterans during this program and whenever possible.
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