The second annual North County Veterans Stand Down was hosted at Green Oak Ranch in Vista, Calif. The goal is to help homeless veterans and their families from across San Diego County receive services that could help get them off the streets, and in permanent housing.
The Stand Down gives our local homeless veterans a temporary break from their reality, while at the same time providing a one-stop location to connect them with the programs they need in a safe, friendly and secure location.
Besides food and clothing, services such as dental, optometry, and basic medical were provided. The DMV, IRS, Social Security, and the Employment Development Department are just some of the groups that were on-hand as well.
A celebration of Heroes was held Saturday to recognize veterans, their families and all those who support the veteran community.
This year’s guest speaker was local veteran Sidney “Big Sid” Matlock, who shared his experiences of being homeless while attending college, working at Palomar College and volunteering for other organizations such as Operation Hope.
Colonel Gary Johnston – Deputy Commander MCI West Camp Pendleton, Sidney “Big Sid” Matlock
Vista Mayor Judy Ritter, State Assemblymember Rocky Chavez, Supervisor Bill Horn, Supervisor Kristin Gaspar
Many homeless veterans are working with other programs, such as Interfaith, or are sleeping on a friend’s couch. They already have a place to sleep, so they attended for one day to receive services they do not have access to.
Rancho Buena Vista High School Band
CLICK ON ANY PHOTO TO OPEN GALLERY
The needs of our Homeless Veterans is an ongoing challenge. Find out MORE
