HOMELESS VETERANS TO GET AID : STAND DOWN '96 TO OFFER WEEKEND REFUGE, MEALS.

Byline: Alicia Doyle Daily News Staff Writer

Homeless veterans will receive meals, showers and a place to sleep this month when Ventura College opens its campus for Stand Down 1996.

Reflecting military terminology for moving from a combat situation to one of safety and security, Stand Down 1996 will offer relief and aid to homeless veterans in the counties of Ventura, Santa Barbara, San Luis Opispo and Los Angeles.

``This is an opportunity to give homeless veterans assistance to help the break the cycle of homelessness,'' said Claire Hope, chairing the event. ``Stand Down is all about Americans helping Americans. It's a way to give them a real chance for a new beginning.''

During the three-day relief effort, homeless veterans will live in military-style tents on the football field on campus, where they will have access to locker rooms and showers.

Organizers plan to send buses throughout Ventura, Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties to pick up homeless veterans and bring them to Ventura College, 4667 Telegraph Road. The event is planned for the weekend of July 26-28.

Stand Down has helped more than 400 veterans since the annual program began in 1993, organizers said. This year, they are prepared to house and provide meals for 350 veterans.

An outpouring of requests, community support and interest have prompted expansion of the program, said Sharon Dwyer, co-chairwoman.

``Since Stand Down events have not been held in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties, there hasn't been anywhere for the area's homeless people to go for services,'' Dwyer said.

Working in conjunction with public and private agencies, Stand Down 1996 also will provide veterans with services such as medical attention and legal help.

Part of the program will be legal proceedings by volunteer lawyers and judges. Veterans will be able to deal with outstanding misdemeanor warrants and convictions if they wish. The court will be linked by computer to the county's judicial system.

Veterans may preregister during regular business hours at human service agencies, offices of the state Employment Development Department and American Legion posts in Oxnard, Santa Barbara, Moorpark, Oakview, Camarillo, Port Hueneme and Simi Valley.

For further registration information and locations, contact [phone].