Holistically-Minded Help for Veterans

When you prep a job candidate for an interview, do you ever mention that they should dress a certain way?  For a lot of people, preparing for a job interview requires hurdling not only psychological but also physical barriers.  Not everyone can simply “clean up nicely” without a lot of support.

The U.S. Department of Labor is attempting to address the challenges facing homeless veterans while they look for work.  A lack of shelter and related resources often limits the ability of people who are homeless to prepare for job interviews, make a positive impression on prospective employers or be contacted for follow-up.

The U.S. Department of Labor’s Veterans’ Employment and Training Service today announced the availability of $600,000 in “Stand Down” grants that will provide an estimated 10,000 homeless veterans with  employment and training opportunities.  They will also help these veterans meet some of the physical expectations for job interviews.

“Stand Down events across the country will reach thousands of homeless veterans — including homeless female veterans — with opportunities to re-enter America’s workforce,” said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis, who is also chair of the Interagency Council on Homelessness.  “Through these grants, the federal government will engage states and local communities as active partners in readying those who have served our nation for civilian jobs.”

Stand Down community events are held by local organizations that provide veterans with a wide range of social services such as food, clothing, shelter, housing and employment assistance.  In 2010, more than 160 organizations across the country partnered with local businesses, government agencies, and community and faith-based service providers to hold 81 Stand Down events for homeless veterans and their families.