Stand down provides Veterans impacted by Hurricane Harvey with vital resources

For the latest on VA’s response and inspiring stories of service to Veterans impacted by the hurricanes, read more on the blog.

Due to the impact of Hurricane Harvey and the increased number of homeless Veterans in the storm-ravaged area, VA’s annual homeless Veterans stand down took on new significance.

“Operation Stand Down Rebound,” sponsored by the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center and the City of Houston, provides homeless Veterans and those at risk of becoming homeless, with the opportunity to access a broad range of services in one convenient location.

Operation Stand Down Rebound was bolstered by a $50,000 Department of Labor assistance grant. The increased support will allow DeBakey and Houston to serve Veterans who are still in need of housing, extended basic needs such as: mattress, bedding, work attire and household items as a result of storm damage.

The stand down also provides vital support to those who are recovering from the impact Hurricane Harvey, with a focus to connect homeless Veterans and those at risk of being homeless with resources including immediate housing, VA health care benefits, education, employment opportunities, legal assistance, transportation, hygiene products, clothing, food, dental services, haircuts and family services. The ultimate goal is to transition out of homelessness permanently and the stand down is often the first step toward stability.

More information about VA’s homeless programs in Houston is available at http://www.houston.va.gov/services/homeless/.

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