PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD) -- The importance of veterans in central Illinois was put on display Saturday through a helpful resource fair.

Goodwill of Central Illinois hosted its 17th annual Stand Down for Veterans event at its commons off of War Memorial Drive in Peoria.

A line of veterans nearly wrapped around the building to get in to participate in workshops and stop at booths operated by 25 area social service agencies. Participants could also stop and grab some pulled pork and pie in the section adjacent to the free clothing pickup bins.

Johanna Wagner, assistant director and program manager for Goodwill of Central Illinois, said this occasion showcases the significance of veterans in the area.

"In addition to what we do on a regular basis, which is help them by providing them with jobs,

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