The Sonny Montgomery VA Medical Center recently held an annual Stand Down at the Salvation Army in Jackson.
Kimberly Moore of the VA's Homeless Veterans Program says this event gives the veterans access to a healthier standard of living.
"No veteran should be homeless. Veterans want to be able to get access to everything. That's why it's important for us to bring all of these services under one roof," says Moore.
The services range from health screenings and benefits counseling, to housing, employment and substance use treatment.
A U.S. Army veteran, Freddie Humphreys Jr., spoke at the Stand Down. Having been on the streets before, he says the Homeless Veteran's Program helped him get off drugs, find a home, and a new way of life.
"What the Homeless Veterans Program offered me, was the chance to basically practice a new way to live. I was resolved to be a junkie. Now, I have a meaning in life. They helped me get my apartment, and that's what is helping me today," Humphreys says.
Humphreys says his 2 years in the Homeless Veteran's Program has been worth it. Alan Mixon served in the army for three years. He also encourages other veterans to seek assistance.
"They can make a difference if you're having troubles. Come to an event like this, and you will have people to talk to," Mixon says.
Every year, more than 100 homeless veterans benefit from the Sonny Montgomery VA Medical Center's Stand Down.
