Kansas City, Missouri is currently experiencing a rebirth of its downtown and renewed interest in the city itself. New lofts are appearing where once abandoned buildings stood on the verge of decay and the development of a new downtown arena, entertainment district and plans for a world-class performing arts center are infusing the city with greater energy and spirit. However despite these gains, many families and individuals still struggle in vain for a roof over their heads. As in many communities, homelessness is a growing problem, particularly for families with children.

In response, reStart, Inc., a homeless shelter located on 918 East 9th St. is taking major steps to help homeless families and individuals get back on their feet. Excited by reStart's initiative, Greater Kansas City LISC has partnered with reStart by providing a $1.77 million capital improvement loan to help address the issue. John Wood, Senior Program Officer for Lending & Development with Greater Kansas City LISC explains, “reStart is actively helping to meet the needs of the homeless in Kansas City. reStart's plan to provide private living quarters for families and build space for youth counseling services convinced us, at LISC, that we needed to play a role. This project addresses a growing need of families with children and truly meets our mission to help transform communities. However, we also made a strong business decision because reStart has a proven track record and a solid business plan to repay the loan."

Pictured at the August 29th "More than a Groundbreaking" event are from left to right: Paula Willett, Vice President Bank Midwest; Diane Botwin Alpert, reStart Capital Campaign Chair; John Wood, Senior Program Officer of Lending, Greater Kansas City LISC; Kansas City Missouri Mayor Kay Barnes; and Norma Lyons McKelvy, reStart Board Chair. Each is ready with hammer in hand to "ceremoniously" help with the remodel of reStart's facility.

The remodel is also supported by a $1million loan from Bank Midwest and a capital campaign led by reStart's Capital Campaign Cabinet -- comprised of Board members, civic leaders and Evelyn Craig, reStart's Executive Director. Ms. Craig added, "This project has been a long time coming. It will enable us to better serve the needs of the homeless in the area. As the largest homeless shelter service-provider in the area, we are improving our reach and capacity with the addition of new family suites on three floors, improving safety through modern sprinkler and security systems, and enhancing our effectiveness with the introduction of a counseling room and upgraded administrative facilities and lobby. We are truly excited to have Greater Kansas City LISC as a partner in this worthwhile project."

For more information, contact John Wood at 816-753-0055 x17 or via email at jwood@lisc.org.

The reStart facility at 918 E. 9th Street in Downtown Kansas City, MO is receiving improvements as a result of a recent capital improvement loan from Greater Kansas City LISC.