Southeast Idaho Homeless Stand Down

YouNews™

Story Published: Oct 11, 2008 at 10:35 PM MST

Story Updated: Nov 21, 2008 at 3:44 AM MST

By Veronica Cardenas

Video

POCATELLO - As the first snow storm hits the homeless seek shelter.
"With these weather conditions it just goes to show you how hard it can be out there," said Southeast Idaho Homeless Stand Down Chairman Tim Cowden.

Cowden says "Stand Down" is a military term used when soilders leave the battefield to set down their gear, get some food, and attend to their personal needs.

This "stand down" is a hands up to those fighting the everyday battle of being homeless.

"I've been homeless since December. I used to live in Nampa and I came here to see what they have to offer," said Leroy Ortero.

Leroy Otero is just one of about one hundred homeless who were transported to the Bannock County Fairgrounds. They received medical treatment, hot breakfast, personal items, and a place to weather the storm for at least a couple of hours.

"I'm going to get a flu shot and a sleeping bag," said Ortero.

Physician Assistant Nick Box was happy to extend his services to Ortero.

"I think we should have more of these not just once a year," said Box.

While the "Stand Down" is only once a year, it is now in its 12th year and continues to grow with help of several agencies in the community.

Current Weather

Current Temp 42 °F

Overcast

Video

More Weather

Current Weather

More Weather

YouNews

This content requires the latest Adobe Flash Player and a browser with JavaScript enabled. Click here for a free download of the latest Adobe Flash Player.