Kansas City Police Department Helps Generous Woman Get New Start

Press release from the Kansas City Police Department:

July 25, 2020

When Missouri Gov. Mike Parson deployed the Missouri National Guard to protect Kansas City Police buildings and other government facilities during civil unrest in early June, KCPD members wanted to be good hosts.

The soldiers stayed in KCPD buildings while not at their assigned posts, so Department members wanted to thank them for their service by providing food and hospitality. Many restaurants and community members partnered with KCPD to donate meals for the National Guard members.

Master Patrol Officer Greg Smith and KCPD social worker Trena Miller went to one fast food restaurant to see it they would be willing to provide breakfast for the soldiers. Management staff declined, but the woman working at the register, Allison, overheard the request and said she would buy the meals out of her own pocket.

The next day, Miller followed up with Allison to thank her for her generosity. Miller learned that despite working at the fast food restaurant full time, Allison lived in her car with her three children. Even though she was homeless, Allison had still bought the meals for the soldiers.

Miller went to work marshaling resources to get Allison and her family the home they deserved. Thanks to Miller’s efforts, the family is now in an apartment but needs furnishings and housewares. KCPD members have gathered some, such as the towels pictured. The KCPD is collecting the following new or gently used items for Allison’s family. Please contact Trena Miller if you can help:

Household items

Twin SheetsFull SheetsBed pillowsMicrowaveCoffee PotPots and PansTrash CanCoffee CupDish rackDishragsBody mirrorHangersSmall dressersLaundry SoapSoap dish for a bathroomCouch or Loveseat

Clothes:Boy 1: size 10-12 shirts and pants, size 4 shoeBoy 2: 8-10 shirt and pants, size 3 shoeGirl: Large shirt, size 8-9 pants, size 8 shoeBoxer briefs: size 6Women’s underwear size 8

This press release was produced by the Kansas City Police Department. The views expressed here are the author’s own.