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January: From the Desk of Stephanie Boyer, CEO of reStart
Winter has settled over Kansas City, bringing with it the biting cold that most of us encounter as an inconvenience—an icy dash to the car, a higher utility bill, or a delayed commute. Yet, for our neighbors experiencing homelessness, these freezing temperatures are not just uncomfortable—they are life-threatening. Tragically, over 700 individuals experiencing homelessness lose their lives to hypothermia each year in the U.S., a sobering reminder of the urgency of our mission at reStart.
Winter at reStart: More than Shelter
At reStart, we are here 365 days a year, providing not just shelter but lifesaving services. During the bitter cold of winter, our mission becomes even more critical. We are more than a place to stay; we are a lifeline—a pathway to housing that offers safety, stability, nourishment, dignity, and hope.
The Harsh Reality of Winter
The dangers of winter’s extreme cold cannot be overstated. Without adequate shelter, individuals face frostbite, hypothermia, and severe health risks. Joe Toney, our Adult Services Program Manager, recently shared the story of a resident who had lost fingers to frostbite during previous winters spent outdoors. Stories like this serve as stark reminders of why we do what we do—and why we cannot do it alone. It takes a community to provide refuge from the cold.
Housing: The Key to Stability
At reStart, we believe housing is a human right and a cornerstone of health and well-being. Housing is healthcare. Our work is driven by this philosophy, providing not just shelter but comprehensive support programs that pave the way to long-term stability.
When someone enters our programs, they’re greeted not just with a bed, but with partnership and a personalized housing plan to address barriers like unemployment, health challenges, or the lack of affordable housing. Our case managers work diligently to connect individuals, families, children, and veterans to the critical resources they need, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Reflection and Gratitude
As we face another challenging winter, I am deeply grateful for the unwavering support of our community. Your contributions—whether through donations, volunteering, or spreading awareness—are a powerful reminder that no one is alone in this fight. Together, we are providing more than shelter; we are restoring hope and opening doors to new opportunities.
Thank you for standing with us as we continue this vital work. With your help, we can ensure that every individual we serve not only survives the winter but has the chance to thrive beyond it.
With gratitude,
Stephanie Boyer
CEO, reStart, Inc.