Community Corner

Police, High Schools Team Up to Help Vets

Police departments and high schools from Deerfield and Highland Park will collect coats and gloves for veterans and their families.

The following information is provided by the Deerfield Police Department

A joint effort of the Deerfield Police Department, Highland Park Police Department, Highland Park High School and Deerfield High School will begin be collecting new or gently used coats or gloves (adult or children sizes) to benefit veterans in Lake County.

“Operation Stand Down” is a coat drive in collaboration with the Lake County Veterans Assistance Commissionand will take place on September 27, 2013 during a football game between Deerfield High School and Highland Park High School.

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Here are the details:  Veterans and their families in Lake County who are in need of assistance benefit from Operation Stand Down. Per the Illinois Department of Employment Security, Lake County has approximately 4,500 unemployed veterans. Over 782 veterans are on food stamps and considered “at risk.” At any given time, Lake County has a homeless veteran population between 60 and 100.

All new and gently used coats received will be given to veterans (and their families) in need. The unclaimed coats will be collected by the Salvation Army who in return will make a donation to the Veterans Assistance Commission for future veteran assistance.

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Future assistance includes food stamps, medical and dental assessment, haircuts, and referrals to counseling services.

There are two ways to donate. New and gently used coats and gloves (any size) can be dropped off at any time between before September 28, 2013 at the Deerfield Police Department (drop box in lobby). Donations will also be accepted at the Deerfield High School vs. Highland Park High School football game on September 27, 2013 held at Wolters Stadium Field 1080 Park Avenue W., Highland Park, IL 60035 at 7:00pm.

For more information about the Lake County Veterans Assistance Commission please visit www.lakecountyil.gov/veterans or call (847) 377-3344.


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