Homeless veterans had access to free food clothing and health care, as well as psychiatric and social work services during the 14th annual Massachusetts Stand Down for Homeless Veterans. Veterans also received free legal services, housing search assistance, and help with obtaining identification cards through the Registry of Motor Vehicles.

During the Stand Down, HUD Deputy Regional Director James Barnes visits with a member of the Massachusetts Army National Guard and volunteers from the Antioch Missionary Baptist Church in Dorchester.

Last year, HUD provided $1.2 billion in homeless funding nationally. The National Coalition for Homeless Veterans estimates that 23 percent of the homeless population are veterans.

"Veterans earned these benefits by serving their country, and we are proud to provide funding to help move them from a life on the street to transitional or permanent housing," said Deputy Regional Director James Barnes, who attended the Stand Down to lend his support.

The event, which is organized by the Veterans Benefits Clearinghouse and the VA Boston Healthcare System, took place on August 12 and 13 at Clifford Park in the Roxbury section of Boston.