Chicago Veteran Stand Down brings winter preparedness, housing opportunities
Unhoused, housing-insecure and in-need Veterans lined up at the Illinois National Guard Northwest Armory Nov. 8 for the annual Winter Stand Down.
Chicago Stand Downs are held every summer and winter. A committee of Veteran Affairs staff, local nonprofits and area agencies organize the bi-annual event. For the 2024 Winter Stand Down, Edward Hines Jr. VA Hospital and Jesse Brown VA Medical Center led the committee.
The Winter Stand Down provides coats, gloves, and blankets for the upcoming cold weather.
This year, over 300 Veterans received these items at the stand down as well as receiving assistance with claims, vaccines, community partner services and referrals. New this year was Reiki Healing, which Veterans claimed reduced their stress and pain levels.
Additionally, the Greater Chicago Food Depository distributed over 5,000 lbs. of food and 400 boxed lunches during the event.
Over 150 volunteers contributed to this event, but many believe it is a privilege to provide their services to Veterans.
“It is always an honor to serve those that have served us so well and have given so much of themselves for the benefit of all of us,” said Pat Merryweather-Arges, Rotary Club of Naperville, in an email. “We look forward to partnering again next year!”
The more than 200 stand downs held nationwide are part of the Department of Veterans Affairs’ effort to house Veterans across the United States. Nationally, VA housed 46,552 Veterans in 2023. Both Hines and Jesse Brown VA facilities exceeded their housing goals in 2023.
“These stand downs not only help to connect Veterans with other Veterans, but also help us connect Veterans with vital resources including avenues for housing opportunities,” said Donald Donahue, Hines VA social worker and co-organizer.
To learn more about the Chicago Stand Down or to find out how you can volunteer, visit the website https://www.chicagostanddown.org/