We speak with Sarah Sherman, Director of Strategic Partnerships with Maine Bureau of Veterans’ Services about Mobile Stand Downs. On Tuesday, December 1st, the Maine Bureau of Veterans’ Services (MBVS) and their community partners held a Stand Down for homeless veterans in need of assistance. This was the second of four planned mobile events in the state and was deemed a success. The Bangor CareerCenter hosted the first gathering on November 3rd, where eight veterans and two of their spouses were connected to services. The Mobile Homeless Veterans’ Stand Down was held at the Lewiston Vet Center, and partner agencies included: Maine Veterans in Need, Operation Brotherhood, Lewiston Vet Center, Preble Street, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Freedom Riders, Patriot Riders Chapter 2, Easterseals Maine, Wellness Mobile, Veterans Count, Veterans Inc., the Lewiston Career Center and the VA Maine Healthcare System. Veterans who are currently homeless or who are on the brink of homelessness were provided connection to the Veterans Administration, community services, clothes, food, a hot meal, and shelter.
Veterans in need of assistance are encouraged to attend the upcoming Stand Downs in Portland and Sanford and will receive cold weather supplies, non-perishable food items, connection to resources, and care packages. All events are in compliance with CDC guidelines and are held outdoors for the safety of all participants.
For more information please call the Maine Bureau of Veterans’ Services at 207-430-6035 or visit their website at www.maine.gov/veterans.
