The Rocky Hill Veterans Home turned into a military base camp Friday, offering everything from legal and medical services to housing help for the 22nd annual Stand Down event.
"I was quite impressed. It’s quite a layout and it’s great for the veterans," said Barney Barrett of Oxford.
Barrett received a full eye exam for free. Next door, dozens climbed into a dentist’s chair to have their teeth cleaned.
"Over the years, I think I’ve done every tent here," said Manchester resident Nathaniel Shorter. "I’m a veteran and I need the benefits and these people are here to give me some help."
Long lines formed to pick up necessities like sweatshirts and toothpaste.
Organizers said the event would not be possible without all the volunteers. More than 90 organizations gave away everything from free clothing, to free food, and even foot massages.
"It feels awesome," laughed Bridgeport resident Carmen Roldan, who received a massage.
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Roldan came to Stand Down to learn how to get out of transitional housing and into a home of her own. She said the event is special because it’s focused solely on veterans.
"I don’t think that we actually get help, we don’t go seek help, because we were always told that we've got to be strong, and we really don’t want our secrets to be out there that we are weak at something," said Roldon.
The Manchester Emblem Club has been giving away gloves for years and expected to give away 1,000 pairs this year.
"It’s a magnificent experience and you go home and you wonder, 'My God, I have so much to be thankful for,'" said Lee Memire.
Sean Connolly, the Connecticut Department of Veteran Affairs commissioner, called the event a day to celebrate the state’s military men and women. He said no matter how long it’s been since they served, many veterans need to be connected to certain services.
"Make sure they get the benefits that they’ve earned and deserve and well on their way to having a successful life when they’re home," explained Connolly.
Organizers said 40 percent of 800 veterans who pre-registered labeled themselves at risk for becoming homeless.
Earlier this summer, Gov. Dannel Malloy declared an end to chronic homelessness among Connecticut’s veterans. Connolly said the next goal is to end homelessness across the board for the state’s veterans.
