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Stand-Down Gives a Hand to Vets
Men and women got their hair trimmed, cut and coiffed just like anyone else might have on a Saturday. But it wasn't a hair salon. It was part of the Santa Barbara County Veterans Stand Down at the Santa Maria Fairpark.
The annual event brings much-needed services, and a little well-deserved pampering, to area veterans and their families.Medical, dental and legal services, as well as clothing, grooming, and breakfast and lunch, were provided.
Navy veteran Tony Kelly, of Santa Barbara, enjoyed connecting with other veterans. Mr. Kelly said he never misses a stand down because they give him a proud sense of identity as a veteran and a chance to be around other veterans. "This gives me a collective sense of camaraderie that dates back, since 1974 to 1978, and it's a part of me that stays alive for the rest of my life," he said. "These stand downs brings those times alive; it brings it back to the surface."
In its third year, the Santa Barbara County Stand Down had 500 volunteers participating, along with 90 service providers and numerous employers represented. The event is moving in a positive direction, said organizer Steve Lavagnino, supervisor of the Santa Barbara County 5th District. Last year the event served 130 homeless and 460 veterans came through the gate, Mr. Lavagnino said. He didn't immediately have numbers for Saturday's event, but organizers received double the pre-applications than last year and the buses from Santa Barbara had more people on them. "This is the year it's actually kicking in as far as the volunteers are actually taking this over," he said.
While it's rewarding to provide the haircuts and clothing items, it's important to make sure veterans get the services they need, Mr. Lavagnino said. "The first year our focus was on giving things to people and this year we're transitioning into getting people reconnected with the community," he said. Mr. Lavagnino said he has heard from one veteran who attended the first year and since has taken care of his child-support issue, which then allowed him to get his driver's license back. Now he's back to work. Another veteran was homeless the first year and this year she's a volunteer. "So it's working," Mr. Lavagnino said.
Air Force veteran Jametta Misener, of Santa Maria, is grateful for the assistance. Because she is homeless, having all the services in one place helps her get the assistance she needs. "It gives me a chance to reconnect with services people and it helps get me back in touch," Ms. Misener said. Her dogs, Bee Bee and Mee Mee, got help as well. Santa Barbara County Animal Services provided veterinarian services, micro chipping, grooming and pet-sitting while veterans got assistance.
For former Army Ranger Jim Ray of Santa Maria and his wife, stand downs are about seeing old friends. "We just thought we'd come out here and support the other fellows, see some of the old guys you haven't seen in years. It's amazing, that you see some of the people you do here. It's like a big reunion."
