Chris Stewart, Haylea Minks and Barrett Smith work the eyeglass station (and modeled a few pairs)
A Stand Down in wartime was the removal of combat units needing rest and recovery to a safe and secure place after relief by rested units. Here, Stand Down refers to the opportunity for homeless veterans to remove themselves from the stress of the streets and allow community members to watch over them while they receive needed services.
First begun in 1998 by Veteran’s Village of San Diego, each year there are more than 200 Stand Down events across the country. The 2nd annual North County San Diego Stand Down was held January 25-28, 2018. The goal of the Stand Down is to connect homeless veterans with service providers. Rotary Club of Del Mar members Haylea Minks, Barrett Smith and Chris Stewart volunteered at this Stand Down- they staffed the eyeglass station. Outside of Stand Down events, the North County San Diego Stand Down organization accepts donations of cash as well as gently used clothing and household items collected by their partner, TeamAMVETs.