Stand Downs (SD) are typically one- to three-day events 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, the Department of Labor (DOL), other government agencies and community-based homeless service providers.
Funding Resources
Beginning in fiscal year 2027, DOL's Veterans' Employment and Training Service (VETS) now awards Stand Down funding through the Homeless Veterans' Reintegration Program (HVRP) annual Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA), subject to the availability of federal funding, and pending funding reauthorization.
How to Apply
Applicants of future announced HVRP FOAs will submit the event request within their application as required by the FOA. Beginning in 2027, current HVRP grant recipients interested in hosting a Stand Down event will initiate an amendment, in accordance with VPL 04-24, as a Statement of Work change. The HVRP grant recipient's assigned Grant Officer's Technical Representative (GOTR) serves as the point of contact and can assist with the amendment submission.
Post-Event Report
- VETS-703 Stand Down After Action Report (PDF) Exp. 01/31/2027