On Friday, September 8, 2017 in New Bern, NC and Saturday September 9, 2017 in Havelock, NC, Veterans Organic Garden and NC Works Employment office, will host a veteran’s outreach with a special event called a veteran’s stand-down. This event will primarily benefit Homeless Veterans in Craven, Pamlico, Jones and Carteret County but is open to veterans of all eras, active duty personnel and family members.
What is a veteran’s stand-down? The original Stand Down for homeless veterans was modeled after the Stand Down concept used during the Vietnam War to provide a safe retreat for units returning from combat operations. At secure base camp areas, troops were able to take care of personal hygiene, get clean uniforms, enjoy warm meals, receive medical and dental care, send and receive mail letters, and enjoy the camaraderie of friends in a safe environment. We are expecting up to 200 Veterans that will be in need of services.
The New Bern and Havelock Stand-downs will be held from 9am-1pm at the National Guard at 301 Glenburnie Rd. in New Bern, NC 28562 and the New Beginning Ministry of Faith Campus at 30 Park Lane Rd. Havelock, NC 28563. Through this stand-down and partnership with the local civic and veteran organizations, we will be able to provide needed intensive resources from federal, state, county and city agencies to homeless veterans or those in danger of becoming homeless. Navy Federal Credit Union, New Bern Women Club, Elks Lodge No. 764, Military Officers Association, Food Lion, Trent Cadillac and many other organizations and businesses are sponsoring this event. Free rides to the event will be provided to veterans by DAV Chapter 40 and New Beginnings Ministry by contacting their local County Veterans Service Officer or 252-514-4828 ext 241 no later than 1 September. Hope to see you there!
Submitted by: Lovay Wallace-Singleton, Veterans Employment Base Camp and Organic Garden, Inc.