Homeless stand down puts focus on veterans
FAYETTEVILLE (WTVD) -- Bobby Rogers admits a heroin addiction ruined his relationship with Uncle Sam during the 1970s when he was a young Private First Class stationed in Germany.
"The Army was good to me, it's just the drugs," said Rogers. "I was going to make it a career for me. Staying in at least 20 years, but the drugs took that away from me."
Today, at 60, Rogers has been in a Fayetteville treatment facility longer than any other time in his life -- four months and counting.
"I just want to get my life together for my daughter. Not only for myself, but for my daughter and my grandkids," said Rogers.
Whether it was a drug addiction, unemployment or some other unfortunate circumstance, the Fayetteville community is reaching out to get to the root of homelessness, specifically in the veteran population. Alongside the Fayetteville VA Medical Center, the Cumberland County Continuum of Care on Homelessness is hosting its annual Community Stand Down in Festival Park.
On Thursday, 463 people received vital services. Nearly 150 of those helped were veterans. The county estimates veterans make up about 20 percent of its homeless population.
"The brave men and women who served our country should never be without a place to call home," said Elizabeth Goolsby, the Fayetteville VAMC director, through a news release.
The Fayetteville VAMC is on site during the two-day event to process claims and offer medical care for veterans.
Stephen Douglas, a 32-year-old Marine veteran who was stationed at Cherry Point, made his way to their tent Thursday to find out how a year-old claim is processing.
"Just checking on my claims, see about getting an ID," Douglas said. "(The location) Makes things a little easier."
Manicures, haircuts, food, substance abuse counseling, and transportation are also highlights of the event.
Saundra Clagett, a retired Army Sergeant, is working with the Fayetteville VFW Post 6018 to help veterans.
"We have programs for recently discharged Iraq and Afghanistan veterans, and I wanted to be able to address some of the concerns or issues they may have and refer them to the necessary organization or office," she said. "No veteran should be homeless."
The Stand Down continues on Friday, July 25th from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
