In an effort to provide the homeless and veteran populations in Lee County with access to essential goods and services, the Lee County Homeless Coalition will host the 24rd annual Homeless Service Day and Veterans Stand Down this Saturday, Jan. 27.

The event will begin at 8:45 a.m. at City of Palms Park, 2201 Edison Ave., Fort Myers, until approximately 2 p.m. Services provided during the event to anyone homeless or a veteran will include provisions for food, hygiene kits, backpacks, haircuts and information on VA benefits. Referrals for substance abuse and mental health counseling will also be available.

During the event, the Lee County Homeless Coalition, along with Lee County Human and Veteran Services and many community volunteers, will complete the Annual Homeless Census, which provides critical information on the scope of homelessness in our community.

The coalition has again partnered with the 20th Judicial Circuit Administrative Office of the Courts, Lee County Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller, the Lee County Tax Collector and JFCS of the Suncoast to offer Traffic Court for Veterans and people experiencing homelessness to provide an opportunity to receive assistance with their unpaid court fines. A valid government-issued ID is required, such as a DD214, VA card or driver’s license. Attendees must register by Jan. 26 at trafficcourt2024.eventbrite.com to participate.

The effort to provide these one-stop, free services is a collaborative endeavor which includes several agencies and civic organizations. The original “Stand Down” for homeless veterans was modeled after the Stand Down concept used to provide a safe retreat for units returning from combat operations. Stand Down afforded battle-weary soldiers the opportunity to renew their spirit, health and overall sense of well-being.

The Lee County Homeless Coalition is a non-profit organization comprised of community and faith-based service providers, local businesses, people who are currently experiencing or who have experienced homelessness and other advocates committed to ending homelessness. The coalition’s mission is to advocate, educate and promote awareness of issues and obstacles facing homeless individuals in Lee County through community collaboration, planning, and implementing solutions.

To learn more about how you can help join the fight against homelessness, call 239-322-6600. For more information on the Lee County Homeless Coalition, visit leehomeless.org.