Since 2016, DAV and the Cincinnati Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center have partnered to host the annual DAV Homeless Veterans Stand Down.

Stand downs, like the one held in October, happen across the country to connect veterans experiencing or at risk of homelessness with programs and resources they’ve earned from their time in uniform.

Oscar Olguin, DAV’s assistant national voluntary services director, welcomed nearly 250 attendees to the one held at DAV National Headquarters in Erlanger, Kentucky, and encouraged them to take advantage of the more than 60 organizations and vendors that participated.

“My hope is that today will be a reminder that we don’t leave our brothers and sisters behind,” Olguin said. “If you honorably wore the cloth of our nation and were forever changed by that service, DAV is here for you.”

Cincinnati VA Executive Director Jane Johnson said the event continues to be an important one in the region for a population of veterans who may not know where to go for help.

“We love our partnership with DAV,” Johnson said. “It has been extremely helpful to serve veterans, especially veterans who are homeless and have multiple needs. Our relationship with DAV really is part of a partnership in the community that veterans need in order to continue their recovery and their journey.”

The needs of the veterans who attended were both short and long term, and representatives from government and nonprofit organizations were there to address as many as they could.

Services included haircuts and manicures; flu and COVID-19 shots; medical screenings; and assistance with VA benefits, legal issues, Social Security, employment, housing, finances and substance use disorder.

Attendees also enjoyed a concert from world-renowned pianist and composer Eric Genuis and accompanying musicians. Genuis, a Kentucky resident, travels around the world for his Concerts for Hope—performances designed to uplift and bring hope, beauty and dignity back to marginalized populations.

Kroger provided hot meals, and everyone received a bag of clothing, hygiene supplies and a resource guide for further help.

“The stand down is a highlight of the year for many of us at DAV,” Olguin said. “Not only does it remind an often-forgotten population of veterans that they are seen and known, it also serves as a reminder of why we do what we do. There are veterans walking out of this building today with a new outlook and a chance to live their lives with the respect and dignity they deserve.”