WellSky® Foundation, Kimbell Family Commit $600,000 to Close the Digital Divide for Hillcrest Families
New SkyBridge Technology Centers opening in Lee’s Summit and Kansas City this winter will give residents access to computers, internet, and hands-on digital skills training
Overland Park, Kan. — October 6, 2026 — The WellSky Foundation today announced the expansion of its SkyBridge Technology Center initiative, opening two new centers in partnership with Hillcrest Transitional Housing in Lee’s Summit, Missouri, and Kansas City, Kansas. The expansion is backed by a combined $600,000 investment — a $300,000 gift from Michael and Michelle Kimbell, matched by a $300,000 commitment from the WellSky Foundation. Both centers are expected to open this winter.
An estimated 1 in 3 U.S. workers lack basic digital literacy skills, a gap that limits their ability to apply for jobs, access healthcare, or stay connected to essential resources. This technology challenge is often more acute for individuals rebuilding stability after housing insecurity. WellSky Foundation’s SkyBridge initiative is designed to close that gap by embedding technology centers directly within housing partners’ facilities.
“Nearly every path to opportunity begins online, yet too many individuals still lack access to the technology and digital skills needed to succeed,” said Michael Kimbell. “Michelle and I have seen the impact SkyBridge is already having in Kansas City, and we believe these new centers will help more people gain the tools, confidence, and skills they need for stable, independent futures.”
The centers will give Hillcrest residents access to computers, internet connectivity, and hands-on instruction through the SkyBridge Digital Literacy Program — creating pathways to employment, education, and long-term self-sufficiency. Because the centers are embedded within Hillcrest’s own facilities, residents can access the training in a trusted, familiar space without the common barriers of transportation and added cost.
“Housing is a critical first step, but true independence also takes digital skills, for everything from job applications and healthcare access to managing finances,” said Barbara Fitzgerald, Co-Executive Director and Chief Development Officer, Hillcrest Transitional Housing. “This partnership removes a significant barrier for the families we serve, giving them the tools, access, and confidence they need to build a more independent and sustainable future.”
SkyBridge results to date:
- 2 SkyBridge Technology Centers opened April 2026 at reStart and Sheffield Place
- 40+ participants have enrolled in the SkyBridge Digital Literacy 101 program
- 18 have completed the program with more in progress
- 14 participants have secured jobs with employers including Research Medical Center, Kansas City International Airport, the LEGO Discovery Center, Gates Bar-B-Q, and Cash & Carry
“We’re not simply opening technology centers, we’re creating opportunities,” said Brett Fuller, executive director of the WellSky Foundation. “We’ve seen firsthand how access to technology and digital skills can open doors to employment and help individuals move forward. Thanks to Michael and Michelle’s generosity and partnership with Hillcrest, we’re making an investment in opportunity and hope for families across our community.”
Media Contact:
Alyssa Bruce
Wellskypr@walkersands.com
About WellSky Foundation
The WellSky Foundation is a nonprofit dedicated to improving the quality of life for vulnerable populations by removing social barriers to health, recovery, and lasting wellness. The WellSky Foundation is an engine for change, financially supporting organizations that enable care and healing for people, regardless of socioeconomic status. With a deep understanding of the social determinants of health, the WellSky Foundation partners with community organizations that are boldly addressing the top four socioeconomic factors affecting long-term wellness — housing, food insecurity, transportation, and isolation. The WellSky Foundation is committed to funding and supporting organizations that protect the people and communities they serve and create better outcomes for people in need. Together with our community partners, the WellSky Foundation is breaking down social barriers to health and wellness to build thriving communities. To learn more about the WellSky Foundation, visit https://wellskyfoundation.org.
About Hillcrest Transitional Housing
Hillcrest Transitional Housing empowers individuals, families, and youth experiencing homelessness to achieve lasting stability and self-sufficiency. Through safe housing and comprehensive, individualized support, Hillcrest helps participants build the skills and resources needed to create a strong foundation for their future.
Hillcrest’s programs go beyond providing temporary housing by addressing the circumstances and barriers that can make it difficult to achieve long-term independence. Participants receive support in areas such as employment, financial literacy and budgeting, education, life skills, transportation, health and wellness, and securing permanent housing.
Through its transitional housing program, Hillcrest provides both a safe place to live and a clear path forward, helping approximately 100 households at any given time move from homelessness toward permanent housing, financial stability, and greater independence.