Did you know that January is Poverty Awareness month? Poverty is an ongoing issue in Kansas City, and while many may know the major players working to alleviate it, there are several local organizations making a significant impact that often fly under the radar. In this post, we highlight five such organizations—each with a unique mission and approach to fighting poverty in our community. These organizations provide vital resources, support, and opportunities for those in need.
1. Redemptorist Center
Redemptorist Center, a Nonprofit Catalyst Grantee, has been a lifeline for low-income and aging populations in Kansas City. Focused on providing essential services to ensure immediate survival, this organization offers everything from food and clothing to emergency housing assistance, helping individuals maintain stability during times of crisis.
2. Community Action Agency
Impact 100 organization, Community Action Agency, offers comprehensive support to low-income families, empowering them to break the cycle of poverty. Through programs that provide access to education, employment assistance, and healthcare services, the agency works tirelessly to create long-term change for Kansas City’s most vulnerable residents.
3. Calvary Community Outreach Network
With a mission to improve the health and well-being of Kansas City’s residents, the Calvary Community Outreach Network (a Nonprofit Catalyst Grantee) runs innovative programs that focus on physical, mental, and emotional health. By providing resources that empower individuals to take control of their lives, they help ensure that residents have the tools to thrive, regardless of their circumstances.
4. Serve the World
Dedicated to serving those in South Kansas City, Nonprofit Catalyst Grantee, Serve the World, offers practical solutions to poverty through education, healthcare, and community development. In Kansas City, they focus on providing resources to individuals who lack access to basic necessities, fostering self-sufficiency and dignity. As of today, they have served over 40 homeless families and 112 students in the Center School District.
5. Giving the Basics
As an organization that provides hygiene products to individuals in need, Impact 100 Giving the Basics, addresses a key yet often overlooked aspect of poverty. Ensuring that people have access to personal hygiene items helps restore dignity and provides a foundation for individuals to pursue employment, education, and better health.
These five organizations are making a powerful impact in Kansas City, each tackling poverty uniquely and meaningfully. If you’re looking for ways to get involved or support their efforts, sign up to volunteer and give your time. Together, we can work towards a future where poverty is no longer a barrier to opportunity and success for our fellow community members.