Bloomington veterans get much-needed help

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. (WISH) – Dozens of military veterans were able to get the assistance they need by going to one location on Wednesday. It was all part of the fourth annual Stand Down event.

Many agencies set up tables inside the the American Legion Post 18 on West Third Street and waited for the veterans to arrive. Some of the organizations present were the Disabled American Veterans, American Legion, Vet to Vet Bloomington, Veterans Administration, VA Status Verification and the Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Once a veteran entered the building, they were asked about their needs. Then they were escorted by a volunteer to the organization that would best help.

Tom Triplett, a member of the Stand Down planning committee, said, “It comes down to the community taking care of our own, our military veterans. And there are resources everywhere. It’s just a matter of learning about them, have them learn about each other and networking the great resources available to our veterans.”

Five bicycles were also raffled off during the event. Triplett said the committee paid $5 per bike from Indiana University, which auctions the bicycles to the community.

The Stand Down event in Bloomington is held every year in October. Stand Down events are also held in several other areas across the state.

To get involved with Stand Down events, click here.