KANSAS CITY, Mo. — An organization founded by a group of veterans in Kansas City has announced it will expand to more than half a dozen cities, including St. Louis and Oklahoma City, by the end of 2022.
The Veterans Community Project turned to former NBA and University of Kansas star Nick Collison to help make the announcement on Twitter and YouTube.
The Veterans Community Project works to fill the gaps veterans often face after being discharged from the military.
Since its inception in 2015, the nonprofit has built a community of dozens of tiny homes at East 89th Street and Troost Avenue in Kansas City. Homeless veterans can live in the houses while they work to get back on their feet. They also have access to the group’s drop-in center and a bus stop. the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority provides free transportation for veterans.
The project is also in the midst of a fundraising campaign to build what it calls a new “shipping campus”. When the building is complete, the organization will be able to provide financial management, job search, access to mental health care and other needs for veterans.
Those needs came in the form of preparing for a harsh winter Thursday morning. A mobile “stand down” unit has been deployed inside the Veterans Awareness Center. Volunteers and community partners distributed winter coats, boots and other clothing that men and women will need over the next few weeks.
Employment Services, Legal Assistance, and even the VA Medical Center were also on hand at the event to provide free flu shots, COVID-19 reminders, and help finding jobs.
“We are extremely proud of what we have done here in Kansas City. It’s the flagship and it’s where it all began, it’s the heart and soul of the Veterans Community Project. The possibility of broadcasting this project across the country is a joy. Seeing each city take ownership of the project is what makes us successful,” said Vincent Morales, co-founder of the Veterans Community Project.
If you are a veteran in need of assistance or would like to learn more about the group, the Veterans Community Project website has additional information.
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