Stair Climb Challenge Raises $52,000+ For Homeless Veterans

On Saturday, September 15th, Homes For The Brave hosted its 4rd Annual Step Up For The Brave Stair Climb Challenge. Over 240 Veterans, fitness enthusiasts and generous supporters joined together to raise funds by climbing stairs at Webster Bank Area.

To date, over $52,000 was raised for the Bridgeport-based nonprofit organization that helps homeless Veterans get the housing and services they need to get back on their feet.

“Anyone who has met a homeless Veteran knows how important this work is,” said Sen. Richard Blumenthal. “It’s a very exciting and inspiring event, I’m proud to be here.”

State Sen. Tony Hwang shared those sentiments, “This is a wonderful outpouring of community support. It warms the heart to see so many people take the time and effort to show their commitment to our Veterans.”

Climbers participated as individuals or in teams, following a course of 1,000 steps. A total of 72 teams were formed, made up of friends, families, neighbors and co-workers. Awards for the most steps taken were given to Jennifer Bentley of Westport (19,000 steps taken) and a team of Navy SEALs candidates: Nick Sherman, Chris Ladd, Peter Carino, and Luke Chang, from Greenwich (20,000 steps taken each).

“You are helping us make their lives better,” Board Member Bernadette Baldino told the crowd. “We can never diminish what our Veterans have done for us. We’re here, we’re free, we’re in the greatest country in the world, and it’s because of them.”

Fundraising continues through the end of the month. To make a donation to the organization’s largest fundraiser of the year, visit www.homesforthebrave.org/stepupforthebrave

Homes for the Brave would like to thank its generous sponsors: American Medical Response; AT&T; BTX Global Logistics, DeadLocked Escape Rooms; Dworken, Hillman, LaMorte & Sterczala; Haynes Construction; HonorBound Foundation; Knights of Columbus Park City Council #16; Newtown Savings Bank; People’s United Bank; Wilfredo Perez Jr. Memorial Fund; PSEG; Pullman & Comley; Katie and Bill Samuelson Giving Fund; R.D. Scinto; Spadaccino Realty Team; Sportwater; Trumbull Rotary Club; Turner; Vazzy's-The Original; Webster Bank; Webster Bank Arena; The Workplace; individual sponsor Bernadette Baldino and media sponsor iHeartMedia.

Homes for the Brave is located at 655 Park Avenue in Bridgeport. To learn more, visit www.HomesForTheBrave.org or call 203-338-0669.