NEWS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
Jennifer Bowen 208-681-3132
August 30, 2009
13TH ANNUAL
SOUTHEAST IDAHO HOMELESS STAND DOWN
HOSTED AT THE BANNOCK COUNTY FAIR GROUNDS
OCTOBER 10, 2009
VOLUNTEERS AND DONATIONS NEEDED
On Saturday, October 10, 2009, from 8 a.m. until noon, the doors of Building A and Building B at the Bannock County Fair Grounds will be open for the Homeless Stand Down. “Stand Down” is the military term used when soldiers leaving a battlefield are able to set down their gear, eat, shower, rest, and attend to their personal needs. For individuals fighting the daily battle of being homeless - or nearly homeless, this annual event is a “one stop shop” for services and referral resources. Numerous agencies, organizations, businesses, and volunteers have joined together in offering a “hand up” – not a hand out - to Southeast Idaho citizens in need.
Amongst the services offered between 8 a.m. and noon: a hot breakfast and sack lunch to go, haircuts, clothing, personal care items, a free phone call to a loved one, health screenings, medical referral information, foot care clinic, employment information, and veteran benefit information. Some services are military in nature and specifically for veterans.
Veterans and civilians fighting to acquire/maintain a fixed regular and adequate nighttime residence are considered to be in the homeless population. Transportation to the Stand Down can be acquired through the PRT system at no charge. If a regular stop is unavailable, call 232-0111 by 3 p.m. on Friday, October 9, 2009 to arrange a pick-up. Be sure to state destination when boarding the PRT bus and making arrangements.
Organizations, groups, and individuals are welcome to join the Stand
