WellSky Foundation opens technology hubs to serve Kansas Citians rebooting from homelessness

Two new technology centers — embedded within organizations already offering critical resources — are expected to help expand access to digital skills and employment opportunities for individuals experiencing housing instability.

The WellSky Foundation, in partnership with reStart, Sheffield Place, and Great Jobs KC, celebrated Wednesday with a grand opening event for the SkyBridge Technology Center located within reStart, 918 E. 9th St.

A second center opened simultaneously at Sheffield Place in Kansas City.

Attendees applaud during a grand opening event for SkyBridge Technology Center at reStart; courtesy photo

Both locations are designed to meet residents where they are — removing barriers and creating pathways to long-term stability. reStart serves individuals and families experiencing homelessness, while Sheffield Place works specifically to “to empower homeless mothers and their children to heal from their trauma and become self-sufficient.”

“Everything is digital now, and that can feel overwhelming if you’ve never had the chance to learn,” said Kelly Welch, CEO and president of Sheffield Place. “But when that barrier is removed, you start to see something shift.”

Each center provides access to computers, internet, and hands-on instruction through the SkyBridge Digital Literacy Program. Participants can also earn industry-recognized certifications and connect to employment opportunities through Great Jobs KC.

“We’ve seen firsthand how lack of digital skills can hold someone back,” Welch said. “This changes that. It gives our moms the ability to not just find a job, but to build a future.”

Karolyn Dreiling, associate vice president for development at Great Jobs KC; Stephanie Boyer, CEO of reStart; Gretchen Turnbull, director of programming for the WellSky Foundation; Brett Fuller, executive director of the WellSky Foundation; and Kelly Welch, CEO and president of Sheffield Place; courtesy photo

By embedding technology and training within trusted community spaces, the program eliminates common obstacles such as transportation, cost, and unfamiliarity with digital tools, said Brett Fuller, executive director of the WellSky Foundation.

“Today, so many of life’s essentials — healthcare, employment, education — start online,” Fuller said. “But for many of the individuals we serve, that digital doorway has been closed. SkyBridge is about opening that door.”

The SkyBridge Technology Centers are built on the belief that meaningful change begins with access and opportunity — and that the right support at the right time can alter the course of a life, he added.

“This is just the beginning,” Fuller said. “We’re not only opening centers — we’re opening doors to new paths, new possibilities, and stronger futures for individuals and families across our community.”

At reStart, the impact of that access is immediate.

“Our residents are already doing the hard work of rebuilding their lives,” said Stephanie Boyer, CEO of reStart. “This center removes one more barrier and gives them the tools to take that next step forward.”

The shift is already visible, Welch agreed.

“When our moms come back from an interview or their first day of work, there’s confidence you can’t miss,” she said. “It’s not just about employment — it’s about how they begin to see themselves and what they believe is possible.”