SARASOTA, Fla. (February 11, 2025) - JFCS of the Suncoast will host their 13^th annual Stand Down event at the Sarasota Fairgrounds at 3000 Ringling Blvd. from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, February 22, 2025. Dozens of community partners will be on hand to assist veterans who are homeless or at risk of homelessness with receiving resources for services housing and employment.

Stand Down provides a few hours of relief, support, and assistance free of charge to those who’ve served in the United States Armed Forces and now need a helping hand. This year JFCS expects over 125-150 veterans to attend. Pee Wee’s Canteen food truck is donating food for the attendees, staff and volunteers.

“JFCS is very excited to host the Veterans Stand Down. Our team is working hard to continue the tradition and make this event as fulfilling as possible for our veterans.”, said David Malia, Director of Veteran Homeless and Prevention Services. The day will start with an opening ceremony honoring those who’ve served. This event gives homeless veterans the opportunity to care for their physical and mental health and to receive the supportive services they need to become connected.

Among the many services available is Veterans Amnesty Court. The court will provide the potential for veterans to have fines waved or minor charges dropped at the judge’s discretion. This assistance can remove obstacles that prevent them from receiving driver licenses, jobs, and housing.

A homeless veteran came to the last Stand Down event with the sole reason of seeing the judge. While attending he was able to get all of his fines wiped out and received an emergency bed from the Homeless Outreach Team. Within seven days he was referred as a client to JFCS Operation Military Assistance Program (OMAP). Through OMAP he was able to get rental assistance and move into his own apartment.

The goal for Stand Down is to have more positive outcomes like the story above and empower individuals to become self-sufficient. For more information about the Homeless Veteran’s Stand Down event call 941-366-2224 ext.624.

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About Jewish Family & Children’s Service of the Suncoast: JFCS of the Suncoast is one of the area’s leading mental health and human services agencies. Services are delivered on a non-denominational basis, inspired by the Jewish tradition of helping all people.  With a goal to empower individuals to self-sufficiency and stability, JFCS services provide comprehensive care to community members in need. For more information, visit https://JFCS-Cares.org/