Seattle 'Stand Down' Connects Veterans In Need

Hundreds of local veterans in need of supplies and services queued up at Seattle Central College Thursday. It’s called a “stand down” and is intended to be a one-stop shop for vets who may be homeless.

Veteran Robert Parker was lined up early and had a long list of needs he was hoping would be addressed. Parker says he’d like to get into some better housing, a job, a new copy of his military discharge papers, as well as some additional mental health care.

“I hope I can get well,” Parker said. "You know I don’t want to be on the meds. I want to learn how to live life the way it’s supposed to be, without being medicated.”

The Elks Club from Seattle and Shoreline handed out meals to be eaten on site and takeaway bags filled with protein and snacks for the road.

Vets in need of dental care could visit vans parked outside. Inside sleeping bags, socks, shoes and warm clothes were stacked high.

Even the Federal Trade Commission had a table to help vets avoid phone scams and identity theft.

The stand down runs until Friday.