Considering the current economic climate, Lewis County WorkSource officials are expecting to top last year’s turnout for their event later this week to help local homeless veterans and put county workers back to work.

    The office’s Web site that details information about Friday’s Veteran Stand-down and subsequent job fair has been viewed more than 4,600 times in about three weeks.

    “The stand-down is focused on homeless veterans,” said Mike Hester, local veterans employment representative for WorkSource, adding about 65 veterans came during last year’s event. “They can come in and we’ll feed them breakfast and lunch.”

    Veterans will get clothing and haircuts and have access to health and mental health care screening. Hester said the veterans attending the stand-down will be prepared for the job fair, but that everyone interested in attending is welcome.

    “It’s focused for veterans, but the job fair is open to anyone,” Hester said. “In today’s economy, you can’t just say it’s for veterans.”

    About 15 local employers will be at the Centralia Armory during the job fair, two of which will be the new Lowe’s Flatbed Distribution Center at the Port of Centralia and the Silver State Armory in Packwood.

    “It’s a really good chance for people to network,” said WorkSource’s Brenda O’Connor. “It’d be a great chance for someone to introduce themselves to Lowe’s and see what they’re looking for.”

    O’Connor advised those who would be attending to dress professionally and bring a resume, though a generic application form will be provided for those who don’t bring a resume.

    The Veteran Stand-down will be held from 8 to 11 a.m. and the job fair will run from 1 to 3 p.m. on Friday at the Centralia Armory. For more information call (360) 740-6861.

    Marqise Allen: (360) 807-8237