PORT BYRON, Ill. -State Rep. Mike Smiddy, D-Hillsdale, joined local volunteers and community leaders to provide meals and resources at the 'Stand Down for Homeless Veterans' event, held September 17 through 19 at the Q.C.C.A. Expo Center in Rock Island.
"We owe our freedom to those who have served, and I'm proud that our community stands behind them and embraces the 'Stand Down for Homeless Veterans' event and to help veterans get the support they deserve," Smiddy said. "I'd like to thank 'Bridging the Gap Quad Cities' for their commitment to serving homeless veterans in our community, and for allowing me to join them for this important event. I invite everyone in our community to look for ways to help those who have served our country."
'Bridging the Gap Quad Cities' is a local not-for-profit dedicated to serving veterans in the community, and connecting services at a variety of levels. The 13th annual 'Stand Down for Homeless Veterans' event offered food, clothing, grooming, medical testing, support programs, legal assistance and employment counseling. 'Bridging the Gap Quad Cities' partnered with other local non-profits to host the event, and Smiddy attended the event to serve hot meals to local homeless veterans. Residents who wish to contribute to the organization or volunteer should contact Mike Malmstrom, co-director of 'Bridging the Gap Quad Cities' at 309-269-2012.
