Over 400 area homeless veterans are expected to gather at the VA Medical Center on Saturday, Jan. 22, for the Winterhaven Homeless Stand Down, an annual one-stop outreach event designed to bring warm clothing, care and services to needy men and women who have served in the military.
In addition to gently used and drycleaned coats and jackets, veterans will be offered medical screenings, including HIV testing and prostate exams as well as flu and pneumonia vaccinations, ophthalmology, podiatry, oral health checkups and women’s health consultations.
Employment support will be offered by the U.S. Department of Labor, the VA Vocational Rehabilitation Services and the D.C. Coalition for the Homeless. Staff from the Veterans Benefits Administration, and Veterans Service Organizations will assist with VA benefits claims.
Chaplain services will be provided, as well as haircuts and a large, holiday-style meal. The VA Medical Center will provide free transportation to veterans staying at local shelters. The event will be held from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the medical center located at 50 Irving Street NW.
