Hundreds of Kansas Citians raise $60K to help house homeless veterans
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) - Hundreds of Kansas Citians came together to raise $60,000 to help put homeless or disabled veterans in new and affordable homes.
The St. Michael’s Veterans Center says that on Thursday, April 24, hundreds of community and organizations came together to local veterans at the 11th annual Celebration of Heroes. St. Michael’s is a nonprofit that provides affordable housing to veterans who may be homeless or disabled in the metro.
Organization leaders noted that more than $60,000 was raised during the event to services for area veterans. An awards ceremony also honored six recipients for their efforts to enhance the quality of life for area vets.
“We are filled with gratitude by the generosity of our community for showing their of our local veterans and spotlighting the importance of our mission: to end homelessness among veterans in Kansas City by building a vibrant community that takes care of our neighbors,” said St. Michael’s Veterans Center Executive Director Susan Engel. “We extend our thanks to our sponsors and attendees for showing an unwavering for the veteran community.”
During the event, St. Michael’s also announced the recipients of its 2025 Guardian Awards. Winners included:
- Art Fillmore Veteran Award - Brian Schaben, U.S. Army veteran and American Red Cross volunteer
- Bob Waechter Lifetime Service Award - Adam Magers, licensed professional counselor and U.S. Army combat medic
- Guardian Award (Organization) - The Battle Within
- St. Michael’s Veterans Center Veteran of the Year - Frank Locknar
- St. Michael’s Veterans Center Volunteer of the Year - Clarence Hill
Organization leaders noted that The Battle Within is a nonprofit that helps break down barriers and provide veterans and first responders with mental and behavioral health .
For community unable to attend, but who still want to St. Michael’s mission, other ways to contribute are available. Financial donations, custom fundraising events, volunteers and corporate sponsors are always welcome.
For more information about St. Michael’s Veterans Center, click HERE.
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