For a few days, local homeless veterans will have a warm, dry place to stay. The 15th annual Bridging the Gap, Stand Down begins this afternoon at the Q.C.C.A. Expo Center in Rock Island. Veterans, whether homeless or not, will get food, clothing, medical services, and employment opportunities.
Director Mike Malmstrom says 57 agencies are participating in Stand Down 2014.
It also includes haircuts and showers, plus help with disability claims and more. Homeless veterans are welcome to stay overnight.
Malmstrom says Bridging the Gap can serve up to 160 veterans at one time, but not all are homeless.
Registration runs today from four to six p.m. and again tomorrow from seven until noon at the Expo Center in Rock Island. Then Bridging the Gap continues through Saturday.