Nov. 18 event at Verdi Club offers services to veterans and their families

From press release

2009 Veterans Stand Down will be from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Nov. 18, at the Verdi Club, 782 N. Madison St., Rockford.

The event was originally designed to connect homeless veterans with education and employment resources, in addition to supplying them with meals, haircuts and new clothing. This year, the focus is on all veterans and their families, not just those who are homeless.

“I strongly believe that Illinois does not do enough for our veterans,” said State Rep. Chuck Jefferson (D-Rockford), whose Veterans Advisory Committee will be volunteering at the event.

James Burke, from the local branch of Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), is the chairman of the 2009 Veterans Stand Down. Burke noted there will be free services available for veterans, including free medical treatment, dental checkups, massage therapists, employment consultation, explanation of benefits, mental health information, clothing distribution and haircuts. Games, music, networking opportunities, fellowship, and a free breakfast and lunch will also be provided.

Jefferson will have a booth to explain additional state programs such as Bank on Rockford and Cash Dash. Rockford Mass Transit District will provide free rides for veterans from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. all day.

“Veterans sacrifice everything for our freedom and safety, and yet, many of them face economic hardships when their service is completed,” Burke said. “We need to work together to improve benefits, services and opportunities for veterans by promoting awareness and knowledge. Veterans Stand Down gives us the chance to do just that, in addition to connecting veterans with the assistance they need.”

The 2009 Veterans’ Stand Down is free, and open to all veterans and their families. The public is welcome to attend to show support and respect for veterans, but will not be allowed to access services, including the free meals, that are intended for veterans and veterans’ families only. If you are a veteran, provide the proper identification at the registration booth.

For more information, call Jefferson’s full-time constituent service office at (815)-987-7433.