Homeless and at-risk veterans flooded Stramler Park in north Bakersfield to get the services they need during the 20th annual Kern County Veterans Stand Down.

Co-chairwoman Deborah Johnson says many needed help finding housing because the way veterans can apply for it has changed over the past three years. Those at Thursday’s event were also given free food, haircuts, and clothing.

There are 83 known homeless veterans in Kern County.

Kelli Pierce