21st annual ‘Homeless Stand Down’ gives people hope
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Deanne Coffin, KPVI
POCATELLO — Community members pulled together Saturday to help the homeless by offering services and providing the day to day essentials at the 21st annual ‘Homeless Stand Down’ at Idaho State University.
Many that attended say this event gives them hope.
ISU Cosmetology was busy cutting hair for those that attended the ‘Homeless Stand Down.’ Homeless veterans that took advantage of the free haircuts say it’s a chance to start over.
“it’s nice to get a haircut and be taken care of and also it helps you to get a job and be presentable and not look trashy in town, you know what I am saying, like homeless actually,” says Vincent Yeama.
Other veterans say getting the extra help is something they need.
“Well it helps people who can’t afford some of the things they can get here,” says a veteran who goes by the name Anthony.
A man that has been homeless for a few months says cutting all of his hair off gives him a whole new attitude.
“The new look is going to feel good, because I need to be a new person for the new look,” says Frank Sanchez.
And those helping those in need say it’s a good feeling.
“You know it’s funny because you feel great about helping people out, but sometimes it’s heart wrenching because people share their stories with you as well, so it really tugs at your heart strings, but just to be able to help people out, it’s amazing,” says Rick Fuger with ISU Cosmetology.
Along with free haircuts the ‘Homeless Stand Down’ event provided sleeping bags, health services, and clothing for people like one woman and her child who became homeless about a month ago after falling on hard times.
“It is so helpful. I didn’t even know when my next meal was coming, or clothes on his back, so this place here has just given us everything. Hope, it’s also given us hope back,” says Tami Colson.
A hot breakfast, snack lunches, hot showers, and flu shots were also provided at the event.
Over 100 people attended the event and over 200 volunteers help with it.
This article was originally published at KPVI. It is used here with permission.