Veteran Stand Down Offers One-Stop Services for San Mateo County Veterans

Redwood City - In the military, a "Stand Down" means a pause to rest and re-equip. San Mateo County is using the term for a one-day event that offers veterans a similar break - this time by bringing legal, health and social services together in one place.

The event takes place Thursday, Sept. 25, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the courtyard at 500 County Center, Redwood City. No appointments are necessary; walk-ins are welcome.

"Our goal is to bring together as many different services as possible into one location so veterans can learn about and access many of the services available to them," said Ed Kiryczun, the County's Veterans Services Manager.

Stand Downs are modeled after the military practice of pulling troops off a battlefield to rest and recover. In civilian life, the events serve a similar purpose by giving veterans a chance to connect with support in a safe, welcoming setting.

At the Sept. 25 Stand Down, veterans can take care of many needs in one convenient place. Services will include:

• On-site VA health care enrollment, claims assistance and ID cards

• Flu shots for veterans enrolled in the VA

• Child support and family law facilitation

• Help with traffic fines, bench warrants, post-conviction relief and record sealing

• Access to the Veterans Treatment and Diversion Court

• Discharge upgrades with help from Swords to Plowshares

Organizers say one of the most important features will be legal services designed specifically for veterans, so they can address issues that often stand in the way of jobs, housing or stability. San Mateo County is home to an estimated 21,000 veterans.

Getting there:
Visitor parking is available at the County Center Parking Garage next to County Center (Google map link).

Additional parking is available in downtown Redwood City. (Downtown parking map.)

The Redwood City Caltrain Station is about two blocks away, and SamTrans bus lines and Bay Area Bike Share stations are close by. Riders can use 511.org to plan trips.

About the Veterans Services Office:
The County Veterans Services Office, established in 1946, helps veterans and their families access benefits including disability and pension claims, VA life insurance, home loans, burial benefits and college tuition waivers. The office also connects veterans with emergency shelter, food, counseling, in-home care, and mental health and substance-use treatment.

Ed Kiryczun
Veterans Services Manager
650-802-7930
[email protected]