(COLORADO SPRINGS) — Weidner Field was transformed into a community effort to prepare homeless veterans for the winter on Tuesday, Oct. 15. The transformation was all thanks to an event called 'Stand Down', organized by the Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center. The event offered a wide array of things, including haircuts, health care, and a helping hand. "The day is really about giving back to those who have served, who might have come on some hard times," said Robert McLaughlin, the Executive Director of the Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center. Backpacks, blankets, clothing, and hygiene items were just some of the other items offered. "We also have a housing opportunity upstairs that'll help between ten and 15 veterans go from homelessness to self-sufficiency in 30 days," said McLaughlin. "Normally if someone is un-housed, it's because they don't have a support chain. If there's not a support chain, we've got the community here to help." While last year's event helped 126 homeless veterans, those at the event on Tuesday said it seems to be growing in popularity. Senator John Hickenlooper was onsite to show support and said there were at least 'four times' the number of people compared to last year. "It's exciting that we're getting to the veterans that need the help and the support," said Hickenlooper. "You know, look how much we got done today, but look how much there is still left to do." Mt. Carmel says there are probably more homeless veterans in the area than they are aware of. This year's goal was to help at least 200. "The more homeless vets that are having issues that can come here to get the free services and clothing and sleeping bags and footwear and backpacks, the better we can help them survive and maybe give them a hand up," said McLaughlin. Mt. Carmel is always accepting donations to fund efforts and events like this one. Mt. Carmel is joined by sponsors UCHealth, Murray Security Services, Phil Long Kia, Weidner Field, Military Order of the Purple Heart, Ent Credit Union, Armed Forces Bank, the Assistance League of Colorado Springs, and several other partners.