Recently, the Trust presented a substantial monetary award to the Washington, DC, VA Medical Center (DCVAMC) to support local veterans who are currently facing, or are at risk of experiencing, homelessness. The $60,000 grant will fund programs such as the annual Winterhaven Stand Down, which offers a wide range of free services to Washington’s homeless and at-risk veterans. For an entire day, veterans can visit DCVAMC to receive necessities such as hygiene kits, shoes, and warm clothing free of cost. The event also provides basic medical care, including health screenings, HIV testing, substance abuse support, and mental health services.
Additionally, Winterhaven Stand Down assists veterans with finding stable housing and employment, and the initiative offers a hot lunch and haircut to each attendee. Over the past five years, Winterhaven Stand Down has served as an increasingly valuable resource for the district’s veterans, with volunteers serving at least 100 new veterans each year.