Transitioning from military life to civilian life can be challenging, but dozens of organizations worked with veterans at the 24th annual Stand Down event in Rocky Hill Friday to give them the benefits they deserve.
Edward Morgan, of Waterbury, a veteran of the wars in Vietnam and Korea, collected food, clothing and water.
Morgan said he comes to the event at the Department of Veteran Affairs in Rocky Hill every year.
“And I’ve been coming here for as long as I can remember. It’s been a big help. I live alone, and this cuts down on food, water, a lot of expenses, and other things,” he said.
A quarter million veterans living in Connecticut were given access to these supplies at the event.
Jonnie Wright, a veteran, said the event makes a big difference.
“A lot of vets are homeless and they’ve got a lot of stuff to give you,” Wright said, “to help you out, help you on your way.”
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More than 100 vendors created this one-stop resource shop with a crew of nearly 230 volunteers, most of whom are veterans themselves.
Elliott Donn, who served in the Navy, handed out free shirts at the event.
“Fortunately, I don’t need the help,” he said, “but there are a lot of people who do and we’re here to help them.”
Veterans received housing referrals, foot massages and medical and dental screenings.
“We hope to see about 70-75 people for dental hygiene, or preventative services,” Lori Clavette, the clinical hygienist manager, said.
“All health is important for them,” said Dr. Sheela Tummala, who acted as the chief dental officer on site. “So that’s why we’re here. So we really want to take care of them today and help them in any way that we can.”
Twenty-four years and counting, Stand Down leaves a lasting impression.
“This is a great thing to have,” Wright said. “Too bad it’s only once a year.”
