[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 143 (Wednesday, September 21, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1324]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    IN RECOGNITION OF THE 25TH ANNIVERSARY OF SACRAMENTO STAND DOWN 
                              ASSOCIATION

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. DORIS O. MATSUI

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 21, 2016

  Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Sacramento 
Stand Down Association as they embark on their 25th annual event. As 
supporters of this organization gather to serve our veteran community, 
I ask all my colleagues to join me in honoring the Sacramento Stand 
Down Association for their incredible service to the homeless veterans 
of the Sacramento region.
  For over two decades, Sacramento Stand Down has been a vital resource 
for thousands of homeless veterans in the Sacramento Region. The annual 
three day event brings together a varied support system of local and 
federal service providers from around the region where a veteran can 
reach all of his or her needs in a single visit. Stand Down 
participants assist homeless veterans with reconnecting to civilian 
life by providing copies of essential documentation such as driver's 
licenses, discharge papers, and military IDs needed to access services. 
Participants have access to housing organizations, County services, and 
VA medical health centers.
  Sacramento Stand Down has provided a safe and comfortable environment 
where veterans can connect with other individuals who understand and 
share their experiences. The resources gathered here at Stand Down are 
so transformative; many ``graduates'' of previous years return to 
support other homeless veterans. This event creates a temporary 
community that creates long lasting results. The Sacramento region is 
forever grateful for the Stand Down event and its dedicated organizers.
  Mr. Speaker, as the participants and partners of Sacramento Stand 
Down gather to provide life-altering services, I ask all my colleagues 
to join me in honoring them for their unwavering commitment to homeless 
veterans in the Sacramento Region.

                          ____________________