‘Stand Down’ To Help Needy Vets

Helping hands will be extended to needy veterans and their families at Saturday’s sixth annual North Idaho “Stand Down.”

Free haircuts, clothing and food will be provided, along with career advice and medical care. Breakfast and lunch will be served. Staff from the sponsoring agency, the Idaho Job Service, will be joined by representatives of Health and Welfare, the Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Social Security, Vocational Rehabilitation and other agencies and service groups.

The sixth annual event will take place from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the American Legion Post 143, 640 North Highway 41 in Post Falls.

It’s a great opportunity for people who are uncomfortable visiting offices to get information from a variety of sources, Job Service consultant Bill Taylor said.

The event has attracted about 80 people in past years, organizers said Thursday. But organizers say they could help up to 400 people, and they’re hoping that additional publicity this year will bring in many more.

A switch from the traditional July date to October may also be helpful, employment representative Bob Wright said. In the summer, people are reluctant to take coats, blankets and other items they may need later.