Homeaid Atlanta & Bank Of America Charitable Foundation Assist Homeless Veterans

ATLANTA - Oct. 5, 2016 - PRLog -- HomeAid Atlanta and Bank of America Charitable Foundation partnered on August 26 to assemble and donate 600 CareKits to donate to Operation Stand Down, on October 1, 2016 at Fort McPherson. HomeAid CareKits include basic hygiene items such as shampoo, soap, a toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, and more, all of which are in great need by those experiencing homelessness. Stand Downs are one- to three-day events providing supplies and services to homeless veterans.  They are collaborative events, coordinated between local VA Medical Centers, other government agencies and community-based homeless service providers.

According to the Georgia Department of Community Affairs' 2015 Report on Homelessness, only 7 percent of Georgia's overall population are veterans. However, 12 percent of Georgia veterans are homeless.  Veterans face unique issues returning from traumatic situations and being suddenly thrust back into civilian life, often without the support systems and skills necessary to do so successfully right away.

Bank of America is a national supporter of HomeAid America and its 17 local chapters throughout the country. HomeAid Atlanta has assembled 3,600 CareKits since introducing the HomeAid America program locally in 2014 with the help of Bank of America. CareKits have been distributed to five Atlanta organizations serving homeless families and individuals. HomeAid is grateful for the continued partnership with Bank of America and for their dedication to helping improve the lives of Atlanta's homeless veterans.

HomeAid Atlanta, founded in 2001, is a nonprofit organization that builds new lives for homeless families and individuals through housing and community outreach. HomeAid works in partnership with the Greater Atlanta Home Builders Association, as well as community building industry organizations, to assist people experiencing temporarily homelessness. To date, HomeAid Atlanta has completed over 60 housing, remodel and care day projects at locations that serve victims of domestic violence, teen mothers, abused and abandoned children, and more. Learn more at www.homeaidatlanta.org.

Operation Stand Down is a one- to three-day event providing supplies and services to homeless veterans, such as food, shelter, clothing, health screenings and VA Social Security benefits counseling. Veterans can also receive referrals to other assistance such as health care, housing solutions, employment, substance use treatment and mental health counseling. They are collaborative events, coordinated between local VA Medical Centers, other government agencies and community-based homeless service providers. Learn more at http://www.va.gov/homeless.