Stand Down provides veterans with medical, dental help and more

On Friday, April 20, veteran organizations, medical personnel, social service representatives and community leaders will hold a “Stand Down” event to provide services for homeless veterans.

Organizers have reached out to homeless veterans in 10 counties: Alexander, Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, Cleveland, Iredell, Lincoln, McDowell, Watauga and Wilkes. At least 250 veterans are expected to attend, and plans for transportation to the event are under way.

The event, at the Fairgrounds in Hickory, will provide:

Homeless veterans and veterans group volunteers pose for a picture during a fundraiser for the Foothills Stand Down.

•  breakfast and lunch
• healthcare screenings
• dental and vision services
• podiatry
• nutrition and health education
• social services
• mental health/substance abuse services
• clothing
• sleeping bags, toiletries, boots and other military surplus items  

The Red Cross has provided logistical support and volunteers for the event through the Service to Armed Forces program.

To get involved:  foothillsstanddown@gmail.com  

Web site: http://foothillsstanddown.org/ 

 

 

Caldwell County PE teachers brush up on CPR skills

Moira Brookshire, from South Caldwell High School, does a finger sweep of a mannequin during CPR training.

On Monday morning, American Red Cross instructors trained nearly 40 physical education teachers in CPR and First Aid.

Instructors from South Caldwell High, Hibriten and William Lenoir Middle schools (among others) became certified in life-saving skills.

Jon Gragg, teacher at William Lenoir Middle School, performs chest compressions on a mannequin during CPR training.

“We are thrilled to be able to train our local teachers in CPR because having that skill is so vital,” said Suzan Anderson, local Red Cross community executive. “These teachers are trusted with students on a daily basis, and they are empowered with life-saving knowledge.”

Get trained