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CanVets United tells Sedgwick County commission it helps more than 80 veterans prevent homelessness
Summary
Johnny Rothwell told commissioners that CanVets United, a small private nonprofit, has partnered with VA social workers to bridge service gaps and has helped "80 plus" veterans via VA referrals; he asked the commission to keep the group informed about business engagement opportunities to sustain the work.
Johnny Rothwell, speaking for CanVets United during the Dec. 4 public-comment period, described a volunteer group's work partnering with VA social workers to finance short-term needs that the VA does not cover, such as rental deposits or pet deposits to secure housing for veterans.
"We finance the service gaps of the VA with privately raised funds to help accelerate the VA's mission to achieve functional 0 veteran homelessness in Wichita," Rothwell said, and he told the commission the group has worked directly with the VA and other partners to assist more than 80 veterans "just through the VA alone." He described weekly requests for help and said the group's model aims to prevent homelessness by paying immediate needs that keep housing transitions moving.
Commissioners thanked him and asked for follow-up connections; Commissioner Dennis and others said the commission will support community partners and suggested coordination with the Veteran's Coalition and American Legion. Rothwell asked the commission to keep CanVets United informed about opportunities to partner with local businesses and county initiatives.
