By John Hanni, Fava Data Entry
The third annual North Iowa and Southern Minnesota Operation Golden Hawk “Veterans Stand Down” event was held in Mason City, Iowa, on Sept. 28, 2024. The event brought together Veterans Service Representatives, vendors, and volunteers to assist Veterans facing housing, food, clothing, financial insecurity, or medical and mental health challenges. It provided an opportunity for Veterans to take a break from life’s battles and access resources available across North Iowa and Southern Minnesota—all in a welcoming, under-one-roof environment.
Some of the outstanding services offered this year included dry goods, clothing, Veteran Services, haircuts, chiropractic care/acupuncture, cold and flu shots, and dental care. Veterans and their families also enjoyed relaxing activities such as door prizes, a live band, a comedian, a root beer float and sundae stand, hot food, and games. Veterans described the event as a “great relief”, with camaraderie shining through among attendees. This event ensures that critical needs are met at no cost and provides Veterans an opportunity to connect with one another and their community.
WestCare Iowa – Family Alliance for Veterans of America (FAVA) operates two offices in Forest City, Iowa, and Sioux City, Iowa, serving Veterans and their families in 43 counties across North Iowa. These offices assist Veterans experiencing homelessness through a grant from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs under the Supportive Services for Veterans Families (SSVF) program. Staff from both offices participated in this year’s event, offering a booth with information for Veterans experiencing unstable housing.
Jon Hanni, a staff member at WestCare Iowa, volunteered on the planning committee throughout the year to help make the event possible. This year’s event served 503 Veterans—nearly 200 more than last year—and continues to grow thanks to the dedication and hard work of everyone involved.
