On Friday, September 20, 2019, State Rep. Dave Yaccarino got a first-hand look at the state’s efforts to help veterans in need during an annual event that provided everything from free access to medical and legal services to job counseling and clothing.
“Stand Down 2019” was held at the State Veterans home campus in Rocky Hill where more than 200,000 veterans in were eligible to participate in the event free of charge as long as they were able to provide proof of their veteran or military status. The state’s Department of Veterans’ Affairs is the event’s lead sponsor, also working with state, federal and private agencies such as the U.S. Social Security Administration, the state’s Social Services and Judicial departments and the U.S. Department of Labor.
“I’m glad I got a first-hand look at all of the many programs, services and organizations that band together to help our veterans. Stand Down is such a wonderful and important event that provides veterans in need with free access to critical services. After all that those who served in the U.S. military have done for our country and our freedom, they need and deserve our support,” Yaccarino said.
Yaccarino, who served in the United States Navy Reserve and is also a member of the legislature’s Veterans’ Affairs Committee, met with more than 120 federal and state agencies, community-based organizations, private businesses, veterans’ organizations and over 240 volunteers all of whom spent the day providing services to Connecticut veterans.