ELMIRA, N.Y. (WENY) -- On Wednesday, September 21st veterans from across the Twin Tiers were invited to the "Stand Down" event. Veterans not only had the chance to grab some free military surplus, but to also learn about the resources available to them.

"We're really looking to focus on homeless and at risk of homeless veterans cause that's what we do within the VA, but bringing it out into the community helps us expand out, to all veterans," said Amber Watson, homeless program manager, for the Bath VA.

As the event went on, the line to get into Dunn Field stretched well past the gates. Hundreds of vets came and left with a a handful of necessities and resources they could benefit from like food, shelter, clothing, healthcare, and social security benefits. 

"We're so happy. It's giving back to the Veterans Day. Over 200 to 300 veterans are here and they're getting a lot of goodies," said Robbie Nichols, owner of the Elmira Pioneers. "They are from the V. A. They're getting, uh, Sleeping bags and coats and boots and hats and gloves and blankets and you name it." 

For veterans who have not connected with VA support, organizers say there's no better time than right now. Coordinators said they will work to help make sure all vets get connected with what they need. 

"We've got veteran service organizations at the county level, the state level, as well as the federal level, " said Jason Richards, veterans outreach program manager for VA Fingers Lakes HCS, adding, "We've got some employers here to help, look for, potential job applicants. We've got (living center) like AIM that runs the VA's Veteran Directed Care Program." 

In 2022, "Stand Down" was hosted as a drive-through with the same services. The VA encourages all Veterans to ask for help, there are many community resources providers can set vets up with.