SGT Belanger House Grand Opening
The parents of SGT Gregory A. Belanger participate in the ribbon cut along with Congressional, State, local, and community leaders
On June 13, representatives from throughout the State attended the ribbon cutting ceremony for Operation Stand Down-Rhode Island’s new housing units for homeless Veterans These units have been dedicated to Sergeant Gregory A. Belanger of Narragansett, Rhode Island. SGT Belanger was the 249th soldier to make the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. He also has the distinction of being the first Rhode Islander killed in action in Iraq. For this and many other reasons, Operation Stand Down-Rhode Island decided to dedicate the 11-unit residence located at 963 Chalkstone Avenue to his memory. SGT Belanger's mother and father participated in this ceremony as did local Congressional, State, and community leaders.
Several local agencies helped fund this housing project to include the Rhode Island Housing Authority, the Providence Housing Authority, the Housing Resources Commission, and the Department of Behavioral Healthcare, Developmental Disabilities and Hospitals. The Providence VA Medical Center provided 11 project-based HUD/VASH vouchers.
Operation Stand Down helps provide permanent housing and supportive services to Veterans.
