Step up and Stand Down

OSBURN — The Kellogg Elks and Shoshone VFW are teaming up for a cooperative Stand Down to help the county’s veterans in need this weekend.

The term “Stand Down” originally referred to a time and place in a war zone where combat units could rest and recover.

Roughly a decade ago, the term was reimagined to include an event that provided homeless or needy veterans with a broad range of necessities such as clothing, food, and basic health services.

Since their inception, Stand Downs have become major events that offer a wide range of items and services to all veterans in need.

The veterans that attend the Stand Down also are able to receive referrals for health care, employment, substance abuse treatment, mental health assistance, and other vital services.

Saturday’s event will see the members of the Elks coming to the VFW hall in Osburn, and handing coats, gloves, hats, socks, slippers, blankets, sleeping bags, hygiene items, first aid kits and gift cards that they collected over the recent months.

They will also be handing out $50 gas and grocery cards that they were able to purchase thanks to a $2,000 donation from the Elks National Foundation.

“The Kellogg Elks’ ongoing support of local Veterans is a heartwarming experience,” said organizer Carol Young. “During our veteran events, there are a lot of smiles and positive energy from all involved – Elks, VFW and veterans alike. This is a great opportunity to connect with our veterans.”

Coordinating with local VFW Commander Chris Marker, the event has become a regular event for both groups – and through the efforts of Marker and Shoshone County’s veterans service officer, they have made the partnership an ever-growing success.

“Through our ongoing partnerships, we strive to identify the specific needs of local veterans in order to target those items that would be of the most benefit,” Young said.

According to Young and Marker, there is always a need for donations — and the shelves are routinely empty after these events conclude. If anyone would like to donate items, they can be dropped off at the Kellogg Elks on Monday and Friday evenings, or at the VFW Hall in Osburn.

The 2023 Kellogg Elks/Shoshone VFW Stand Down will be this Saturday at the VFW Hall during the monthly breakfast fundraiser.

Breakfast begins at 7:30 a.m. and features huckleberry pancakes and biscuits and gravy.

“Everyone is welcome and encouraged to give to this worthwhile cause to help our veterans,” Young said.

If you would like to make a donation, please contact Carol Young at 208-659-7075 or Chris Marker at the VFW at 208-752-4811 with any questions.