Tiny Homes Make a Big Difference in the Kansas City Area

Clockwise from top left: Stephen Gatewood and his newly adopted dog, Peeps, enjoy the privacy and independence that come with their own home. American flags adorn each tiny home. Originally from Montana, Jerry LeSueur found himself in Kansas City. “God did not intend for me to just sit around.This is my chance to get my life back together,” he says. Veteran Eric Bishop at the door of his tiny home. Gatewood prepares a meal. Concrete slabs have been poured for the planned expansion of an additional 23 homes. Photos by Marianne Kilroy

For a few who have unselfishly served their country, life after the military can be a challenge. Unable to cope with the pressure and stress of daily community life, some veterans have found themselves in broken marriages, jobless, and even homeless.

For those who have spent years on the streets, the Veterans Community Project (VCP) gives homeless veterans a chance to start their life over.

Chris Stout, Bryan Meyer, Mark Solomon, Vincent Morales, and Brandonn Mixon are the founders of Kansas City’s Veterans Community Project.  When asked why, Mixon simply replied, “Because we each took an oath to serve one another.”

“Our work won’t be done till we bring every brother and sister home.”
Brandonn Mixon

The Veterans Community Project is a mini-development of small homes that provides an environment where veterans may successfully transition no matter what their circumstance. For each individual case, whether it be health issues or an unstable home life, VCP will provide housing and the necessary support services to help each veteran establish a stable daily life. The project connects veterans to services on a variety of issues, including medical and dental—even haircuts and veterinarian care for their pets. Average stay is estimated to be about six months, until the vets can be on their feet and able to move into permanent housing.

The Veterans Community Project goal is to build 49 homes and a 5,000-square-foot community center. Twenty-six houses have been built thus far with local volunteers and funds from our community. The project hopes to expand to every major city in the U.S. One of the organization’s founders, Chris Stout, was recognized by CNN as one of the Top 10 CNN Heroes of the Year nominees.

If interested in volunteering or financially supporting the Veterans Community Project please contact: info@vcp-kc.org.

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