Sentinel staff report–
In a collaborative effort to assist homeless and struggling veterans in the Citrus Heights area, the local Homeless Assistance Resource Team (HART) will host its 3rd annual “Stand Down” event at Holy Family Catholic Church on April 3. The event models stand-downs used during the Vietnam War to provide safe retreats for those returning from combat, where troops could receive clean uniforms, warm meals, and other services.
The local Stand Down in Citrus Heights seeks to offer easy accessibility to a wide range of services for homeless and at-risk veterans in one location. The day-long event will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and will include a hot breakfast and lunch for each veteran and guest, along with employment and housing help, on-site pet services, and referrals to a variety of veterans assistance programs.
“We have truly come together as a supportive community in the past three years,” said HART Board Member Darlene Lyons in a news release, referencing support received from area businesses, ministries, and various organizations. Sponsors include American Legion Post 637, The Way Ministries, Just Serve, Mesa Verde Boosters, and Sacramento County Supervisor Sue Frost.
Related: Laundry Love: new local ministry serves homeless, poor by washing clothes
An event flier invites community members to help by donating clothing, pet food, drinks, and food, as well as personal care items like tooth brushes and deodorant. Providing hair cuts and dental services is also listed as a way to help. Those wishing to get involved can visit www.citrusheightshart.org.
HART is a local nonprofit that was formed in 2014 with a mission to implement long-term solutions to homelessness through public-private partnerships. Through a partnership with the City of Citrus Heights and Sacramento Self-Help Housing, HART now has a full-time homeless navigator who works year-round to connect area homeless with resources.
The group also recently concluded its annual “winter sanctuary” program, offering meals and shelter to area homeless through partnering with local churches.
Related: Winter Shelter: churches, volunteers help homeless off Citrus Heights streets
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Event information:
Citrus Heights Stand Down
Date: April 3, 2018
Time: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Location:
Holy Family Catholic Church
7817 Old Auburn Rd.
Citrus Heights, CA
