‘Stand down' caters homeless vets

http://www.omaha.com/article/20091115/NEWS01/711159906

Published Sunday November 15, 2009

By Leia Baez-Mendoza
WORLD-HERALD STAFF WRITER
« Metro/Region

Bill Schildhouse sat patiently with his eyes closed as his gray hair was snipped by volunteer hair stylists.

The 61-year-old Army veteran was one of about 200 homeless veterans who took part Saturday in the Veterans Affairs “stand down” at the Omaha Civic Auditorium.

Schildhouse, who stays at the Siena-Francis House, said he looks forward to the event every year. He is a Vietnam War veteran.

“It's good for me,” he said. “I'm glad to see them do this for the veterans.”

Schildhouse and other veterans had the opportunity to receive medical checkups, including the H1N1 vaccination, dental and eye exams, free haircuts and foot care.

Veterans were also given free clothes, toiletries and a hot meal. Several organizations were on hand to discuss veterans benefits, housing and counseling.

The event is sponsored by the VA. But several local veterans groups, including the Disabled American Veterans, come together to make it possible, said Will Ackerman, a VA spokesman.

FULL story and photo at link.

:hi: