COEUR d'ALENE - The 2015 North Idaho Veterans Stand Down will be from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday at the Kootenai County Fairgrounds in Coeur d'Alene.

The event provides services to homeless and disadvantaged veterans in Idaho's five northern counties. It is organized by St. Vincent de Paul with support from the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Elks Lodge, Disabled American Veterans and U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

"It is an opportunity for the community to come together to show its appreciation to all veterans who have served their country," a press release sates.

Organizations will offer medical, dental and housing assistance, clothing, clothing repair, food, haircuts, massages, bike repair and veterinary help. Employers who have immediate job openings will accept applications.

A hot meal will be served to all veterans, volunteers and service providers. For the first time in the event's history, family activities will also be a part of the event.

Becker's Tackle Shop will be conducting a casting contest for kids and adults. Strike Zone will also have an obstacle course for kids to play Nerf ball games. There will also be story time, face painting and a photo booth by Max's Photo. Military surplus will again be part of the event, but due to a new VA mandate, it will only be distributed to homeless veterans.

This will be the 22nd year of the Stand Down and serves as a kickoff to a program created by St. Vincent de Paul to assist veterans and their families with services throughout the year. Those interested in volunteering can visit http://www.kootenaiunitedway.org/ or call Connie Clark at 660-2030.

If anyone is interested in donating to the event, checks can be sent to: North Idaho Veterans Stand Down, St. Vincent de Paul, 201 E. Harrison Ave., Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814.

For more information, call Eric Swanbeck, St. Vincent de Paul veteran services coordinator, at 664-3095, ext. 314.