WASHINGTON, D.C. – Approximately 330 homeless veterans participated in the Winterhaven Homeless Veterans Stand Down at the Washington DC Veterans Affairs Medical Center (DCVAMC) on Saturday, January 28, 2006.

This program, sponsored by the DC VA Medical Center and various veteran service and community organizations, provides medical screenings, mental health consultations, employment support and housing services to eligible homeless veterans.

Medical screenings included flu shots, cholesterol, Hepatitis C, prostate and general physical exams. Consultative services offered were ophthalmology, podiatry, infectious diseases, oral health and women’s health. Phycho-social referrals for veterans suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and substance abuse were also offered.

Employment support was provided through DCVAMC Compensated Work Therapy, and by local area Vocational Rehabilitation Programs and the DC Coalition for the Homeless. Staff from the Veterans Benefits Administration was on hand to explain VA benefits. Chaplain Service provided counseling. Hot meals, haircuts, clothing tokens and comfort items were offered.

Transportation was provided by the Medical Center shuttle buses from both Union Station and Brookland/CUA station.

For further information, contact Michelle Spivak, Dir., Community Relations and Public Affairs, Washington DC VA Medical Center, at (202) 745-4037 or email michelle.spivak@med.va.gov.