The Santa Barbara County Veterans Stand Down on Oct. 26 will again offer veterans a free place to get healthcare screenings, employment assistance, on-the-spot assessments, clothing and shoes, crisis counseling and more.
 
The 12th annual free event, which is geared toward homeless and at-risk veterans, will be 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Santa Maria Fairpark, 937 S. Thornburg St.

The event is limited to the first 500 veterans, legal spouses and dependent children younger than 18.

Veterans will have access to showers, flu shots, chaplain services, health screenings, hygiene products, new clothes and towels, food, readjustment counseling, and employment assistance.

Last year, 418 veterans were assisted, including 96 homeless veterans.

Applications for veterans who want to attend the Stand Down are available at the Santa Barbara County Veterans Stand Down website: www.sbcountystanddown.com or by calling Supervisor Steve Lavagnino’s Office, 805-346-8402.
 
Transportation courtesy of the Chumash Casino is also available, with information and pick-up times and locations listed on the website.
 
Many donations are still needed to aid veterans, including blankets, rain clothing, sweatshirts, sweatpants, socks, short and long-sleeve t-shirts for men and women.
 
A weekend donation collection in Lompoc will be 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Oct. 5-6 at Wal-Mart, 701 W. Central Ave.

Email volunteer@sbcountystanddown.com or call 805-346-8402 for more information.