Philadelphia VAMC to host STAND DOWN for Homeless Veterans

Contact: Dale Warman, 215.823.5916

News Release

Aug. 3, 2009

Philadelphia VAMC to host STAND DOWN for Homeless Veterans

For the first time in the event’s history, the Philadelphia Veterans Affairs Medical Center will play host to the Philadelphia STAND DOWN for Homeless Veterans, scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 12 – 13, 2009. The annual event brings together agencies which provide services and information to Veterans who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.

The totally volunteer effort, organized entirely by Veterans, is an attempt to impact and positively change the lives of these homeless Veterans and their families. Upwards of 400 veterans will meet with counselors and peers in an orderly military-style setting, while scores of military, government and civilian volunteers provide them with shelter, food, clothing, medical, dental, and mental health care, hygiene, legal aid, counseling, employment opportunities, chaplain counsel, varied religious services, and meals.

A Veteran’s spouse and dependent children 15 and under may also attend – proof of ID may be required. Free pickup will be made Saturday at 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. at the following Philadelphia sites:

· Outley House, 6901 Woodland Ave.

· Ridge Avenue Shelter, 1360 Ridge Ave.

· Self, 907 Hamilton St.

· Sunday Breakfast Association, 302 N. 13th St.

· Vet Center, 801 Arch St.

There will also be a pickup at 8 a.m. Saturday Sept. 12, at the Chester CareerLink, 701 Crosby St., and at Connect, 135 Long Lane in Upper Darby.

Hosting the event this year takes on added significance as the Philadelphia VA Medical Center was recently named the National Center for Homelessness among Veterans. The center will develop, promote and enhance policy, clinical care, research and education to improve homeless services, so that Veterans may live as independently as possible in a community of their choosing.

“The men and women of the Philadelphia VA have supported STAND DOWN for 15 years and look forward to hosting the 2009 event and serving our Veterans,” said Richard S. Citron, Philadelphia VAMC Director. “STAND DOWN is another excellent example of our partnership with city, state and private groups to reduce homelessness and help Veterans lead healthy, productive lives.”

The Philadelphia VAMC campus is located at 3900 Woodland Ave. in West Philadelphia. Previous STAND DOWN events have been held at the Lighthouse Field on Erie Avenue, and at the Philadelphia National Guard Armory on Southampton Road.

More information is available from STAND DOWN Committee members: George Brown, Logistics, 610-789-6609; Jerry Corrento, Operations, 215-743-6179; or Jerry Jonas, Media and Public Affairs, 215-630-7841.