Help is simply one phone call away for Rhode Island veterans in need.
Based in Johnston, Operation Stand Down Rhode Island has the resources and programs veterans need, whether they need assistance with housing, securing a job, addressing legal issues, or getting the benefits they have earned.
Founded in 1993, by Cumberland resident Tony DeQuattro, who still serves as the organization’s Board Chairman, OSDRI’s beginnings were rooted in hosting a once-a-year veteran assistance event called Stand Down Weekend. The concept involved setting up a military-style encampment over a weekend each September, and bringing together state, federal, and non-profit agencies to one location where homeless and at-risk veterans connected with resources and received the assistance they needed. Thirty-two years later, OSDRI still hosts the event each September, but now on its Hartford Avenue, Johnston Headquarters campus. Last year, over 300 veterans attended.
Executive Director Erik B. Wallin said, “Every service a veteran could need is there, from the DMV to dental care, the IRS to the Rhode Island Judiciary, and everything in between.”
Wallin, who served in the U.S. Air Force, became the organization’s executive director in 2011, making 2026, his 15th anniversary. He reflected on the fact that Operation Stand Down has grown exponentially from its grassroots beginning, but in many ways, has come full circle, in that its full-time mission has remained true to the concept of having essential wrap-around services available in a one-stop location.
Annually, serving almost 2,500 local veterans, OSDRI’s services include housing, rental assistance, job placement and training, pro-bono legal services, and assistance with applying for and appealing claims for service-connected disabilities. Basic human needs, such as food and clothing, are also provided. In addition to these services, OSDRI has developed, owns, and manages 88 permanent and transitional housing units, statewide.
Wallin, an Air Force veteran, highlighted what makes OSDRI unique and so effective: More than 90% of its 36 staff members are veterans. Those who are not are spouses and immediate family members of Veterans.
Wallin said, “For our staff, this is a continuation of a life commitment to service. At the core of it, we are caring for our brothers and sisters in need.”
When asked how OSDRI approaches a veteran or veteran family that comes to OSDRI literally homeless, Wallin responded, “We follow the housing first model, meaning you house the veteran or veteran family first and then tackle the issue that caused them to become homeless next. The veteran will typically meet with an OSDRI case manager immediately. If the veteran has no income and none in the foreseeable future, they may be placed in one of OSDRI’s transitional housing facilities. Otherwise, the case manager will work with the veteran to find an apartment. OSDRI will then pay a security deposit, and may assist the veteran with the rent for several more months. In some cases, OSDRI can even pay half the rent for up to two years. This allows the veteran household to build income without the risk of losing assistance.
Wallin continued, “Ultimately, the goal is for the veteran to become self-supporting in stable housing. To accomplish this, OSDRI’s employment team will work with the veterans to place them with large and small employers. Along the way, OSDRI may assist with training costs or purchasing required tools or clothing. For veterans with a service-connected disability, OSDRI’s VA Disability Unit, staffed by VA accredited claims representatives and attorneys, will help the veteran obtain the benefits they have earned.”
OSDRI also has several other programs to help veterans reintegrate and overcome barriers. These programs include comprehensive pro-bono legal services. OSDRI staff attorneys offer help with cases involving evictions, criminal and traffic violations, family law, debt collection, and others.
A food pantry is also available for veterans at OSDRI’s headquarters in Johnston. Wallin said, “The pantry is one of our most heavily used resources, especially when food prices are high like now. The pantry relies upon donations from businesses, schools, and community members to keep it stocked with non-perishable food items.”
As if this were not enough to keep OSDRI busy, the organization takes seriously the responsibility of keeping the community engaged and focused on veterans and the sacrifices those who serve make. Especially when it comes to those who have paid the ultimate price.
One of the most well-known events is the Boots on the Ground for Heroes Memorial. Conceived nine years ago by OSDRI staff member, Dee Dequattro, now a captain in the U.S. Army, the Boots on the Ground for Heroes Memorial is a display of over 7,000 boots, each representing a fallen service member who was killed in the global war on terror, post 9/11. The boots are adorned with a flag and placard. The placards have photos of the service members and biographical information, such as where they are from, the branch and unit they served in, and how and when they were killed. The boots are set out in alphabetical order by state.
This Memorial Day Weekend, the Boots on the Ground for Heroes Memorial will be displayed at Fort Adams State Park, beginning Friday, May 23rd at 9:00 am, and ending at 6:00 pm Memorial Day. Admission is free. Visit www.osdri.org for exact times and more information.
Those looking to support or volunteer with OSDRI can contact the organization at 401-383-4730 or visit their website at www.osdri.org.
Wallin said, “Food and monetary donations go a long way in helping us carry out our mission. Simply put, we could not do all we do without the support of local business and our fellow Rhode Islanders.”
