(ALBUQUERQUE, NM)—Hundreds of homeless veterans showed up for Stand Down and Project Hand Up 2011 Stand Down for Homeless Veterans at the New Mexico Veterans’ Integration Center (NMVIC) on October 14 & 15

Dozens of homeless veterans were lined up outside the gates before the 8am opening on October 14th—a day set aside only for homeless veterans, with more filtering in at a steady pace up until the end of the day at 4pm. October 15th was for veterans and non-veterans.

On both days, veterans and their families received free clothing, bedding, food, a hot meal, hygiene kits, flu shots and basic medical screening.  The concept is modeled after military “Stand Downs” popularized during the Vietnam War to offer battle-weary soldiers a temporary safe haven to rest, receive medical treatment, get a hot meal, and clean up before returning to action on the battlefield.

“We are here to help you, who once helped to serve and protect our country—during Vietnam…the Gulf War, and the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan,” said New Mexico Department of Veterans’ Services (NMDVS) Secretary Timothy Hale during a brief ceremony on October 14th. “I hope you take advantage of all that is available to you here today. We are all here to help you get back on your feet again.”

Veterans’ Service Officers from the NMDVS and the Albuquerque VA Regional Office were on hand to assist with the filing of VA and state veterans’ benefits or with any other service a veteran may need. NMVIC staff was there to assist with finding temporary housing. Representatives from the NM Department of Workforce Solutions were there to offer job search assistance. Free legal aid was also provided by representatives from the Legal Aid Society and Bernalillo County Metro Court. Breakfast was served in the morning, as were grilled hamburgers and hot dogs for lunch.  Metal-frame backpacks were also distributed to help carry the sleeping bags, clothing and hygiene kits. The Santa Fe VetCenter Mobile Van was also there to offer tours and even book appointments for behavioral counseling.

The U.S. Department of Veterans’ Affairs (VA) estimate there are about 7,000 homeless veterans in New Mexico, and predicts this number will rise due to the ongoing nationwide economic slowdown awaiting returning troops from Afghanistan. The NMDVS helped create the NMIVC and continues to assist with funding its operation to offer the same services offered at the Stand Down—but on a longer term basis.  Residents must sign up and commit for a two-year program, and pledge to refrain from substance abuse and consumption of alcohol.