Crispus Attucks York Serves More Than 70 Veterans at 4th Annual Veterans Stand Down

Crispus Attucks York welcomed Veterans and community partners to its 4th Annual Veterans Stand Down on September 23, 2026, at Horticultural Hall at the York Expo Center. More than 70 Veterans experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity received services and connected with resources during the event.

Before the doors opened, Barry Freeland, CAY Director of Employment and Training, thanked the West York Navy JROTC cadets and the other volunteers preparing to welcome Veterans. He reminded the resource providers that the day’s purpose went beyond offering a meal and supplies. The goal was to help Veterans find opportunities that could change their lives.

Freeland identified housing, healthcare, and employment as three priorities. Drawing on his own experience, he also spoke about the importance of helping Veterans rebuild their confidence. He encouraged volunteers to listen, share available opportunities, and show each person that the community believes in them.

The West York Navy JROTC opened the Stand Down with a presentation of the colors, followed by “The Star-Spangled Banner.” The cadets continued to volunteer throughout the day. The Vet Center Bus and Salvation Army Bus were on site, and VA Veterans Outreach brought small homes for attendees to see.

The day also included a raffle for two-night stays, with four winners selected. Volunteers helped welcome Veterans and connect them with the organizations and resources available at the event.

We also thank our community partners and sponsors: LifePath Christian Ministries, Advent Lutheran Church, York Benevolent Association, The Salvation Army, Atlas Print, Penn Waste, York JCC, York County Veterans Outreach, Central Family Restaurant, Friendship Community Church, York County Veterans Affairs, Church & Dwight, Sam’s Club, Papa John’s, ZIPS Cleaners, W.B. Mason, Weis Markets, Rita’s Italian Ice on Loucks Road, McDonald’s, Stauffer’s, St. Mark’s Prayer Shawl Ministry, and North York Beverage.

Crispus Attucks York extends a big thank you to the York Expo Center for providing the facilities and to every volunteer for their service to our Veterans.

The Veterans Stand Down reflects what our community can accomplish when we work together to serve those who have served. We could not have done it without you.

The Crispus Attucks York Annual Veterans STAND DOWN to Homeless Event is supported by the U.S. Department of Labor and funded by other sources.