Steffon Bradford and LES 60 Miles Towards Change

## Join Me in Making a Difference: A Walk to Raise Awareness and Support for Those in Need

Hello everyone,

I am excited to share an important initiative that is very close to my heart. I will be walking from the Open Door Mission Drop-off Center in Elkhorn to the Devaney Center to raise awareness about the struggles faced by the homeless and struggling children and families in need.

This cause is deeply personal to me. There were many times in my life when my mother, siblings, and I were on the brink of homelessness. We never had anyone to help us, and from an early age, I had to step up and take on responsibilities that robbed me of my childhood. Having a childhood is a crucial part of human development, and it breaks my heart to think of the youth today facing the same hardships I did.

The walk will start at the Open Door Mission Drop-off Center, a place that symbolizes what could have been for my family, and end at the Devaney Center, which was a turning point in my life. The Devaney Center became my refuge, a safe haven where my life began to change for the better.

One of the key beneficiaries of this initiative is the Lydia House, part of the Open Door Mission, which has been helping women and children escape homelessness for more than 69 years. Nationally, about half of all homeless women and children are fleeing domestic abuse and violence. Having watched my mother be abused for years as a child, helping others escape that reality is a cause close to my heart.

The Lydia House provides emergency services for women and families in need of immediate assistance, including food, shelter, clothing, and other basic needs. Additionally, the Lydia House offers life-changing programs to address the causes of homelessness, such as abuse, addiction, and the inability to obtain and maintain steady employment.

I have started this Go Fund Me page to raise funds that will be donated to those in need through the Open Door Mission and the Lydia House. Additionally, the funds will provide scholarships for young athletes who wish to join my basketball program, Lifeline Elite Sports, but whose families may not have the means to afford it. Basketball provided me with an opportunity to change my life's direction and has allowed me to lead a positive adult life, sharing a positive message and influencing my community—embracing people of all races, ethnicities, faiths, and genders.

Your support can make a significant difference. By donating to this campaign, you can help provide shelter, support, and opportunities to those who need it most. Together, we can ensure that more children have the chance to enjoy their childhood and grow into thriving adults.

Thank you for taking the time to read this and for your support. Your generosity means the world to me and to the countless individuals and families who will benefit from this initiative.

Warm regards,

Steffon Bradford

Professional Basketball Player and Founder of Lifeline Elite Sports