Chiefs’ Xavier Worthy Expands Foundation to Support Kansas City Single Mothers
Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Xavier Worthy is utilizing his bye week to launch a significant initiative right here in the metro area. Through his foundation, “The Worthy 1s,” he is focusing efforts on empowering and assisting Kansas City’s large population of single mothers and their children, aiming to provide crucial support rooted in personal experience.
A Personal Connection to Kansas City’s Needs
Xavier Worthy’s dedication to single mothers stems from his own upbringing. His mother, Nicky Jones, raised him as a single parent, deeply understanding the daily struggles. “I was a young single mom starting out with Xavier, and there’s a lot of struggles that come with that,” Jones shared, recalling challenges like keeping food on the table and the lights on.
Worthy himself remembers hardships vividly, including periods when their power was shut off for months. This firsthand knowledge fuels his passion to prevent other families in Kansas City from facing similar struggles. With over 61,000 single mothers raising more than 115,000 children in Kansas City, as noted by Rachel Segobia, executive director of The Single Mom KC, the need for support is immense.
Introducing “The Worthy 1s” in Kansas City
“The Worthy 1s” foundation, which previously operated in Austin, Texas, and Worthy’s hometown of Fresno, California, is now bringing its comprehensive programs to Kansas City. The foundation is built on the principle of providing holistic support, addressing not only financial challenges but also emotional well-being and community building.
Core Programs Designed for Impact
The expansion to Kansas City includes eight core programs, all designed to uplift single-parent households. These initiatives cover a wide spectrum of needs, from educational grants to youth engagement and community connection. Here’s a look at the support areas:
| Program Area | Primary Focus | Directly Addresses (KC Need) |
|---|---|---|
| Education & Financial Growth | Grants for schooling, financial literacy workshops | Economic stability, skill development for mothers |
| Holistic Well-being | Mental, emotional, and physical support sessions | Isolation, stress, personal resilience for parents |
| Youth Development | Mentorship, sports camps, basic needs (coats/shoes) | Child engagement, positive role models, material support |
| Community & Affirmation | Luncheons, “Worthy Spotlight” verbal affirmation | Social connection, confidence building for families |
Nicky Jones confirms that the foundation will offer direct financial assistance through grant-based programs for mothers returning to school, alongside various programs specifically for children. These efforts are crucial in combating key challenges faced by single mothers, such as loneliness and isolation, by fostering strong communities of support and hope.
Community Engagement and Future Outlook
Worthy has already begun building partnerships, holding a luncheon with city leaders and local non-profits during the Chiefs’ bye week. Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson, who attended the luncheon, expressed plans for Worthy to visit the Hilltop Juvenile Detention Center, aiming to inspire and guide young people through the foundation’s expanded youth programming.
This initiative represents a significant step towards bolstering the support system for single-parent families across the Kansas City metro. By addressing both immediate needs and long-term empowerment, “The Worthy 1s” aims to make a lasting, positive impact on our community.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Worthy 1s
- What is “The Worthy 1s” foundation?
It’s a foundation launched by Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Xavier Worthy, dedicated to supporting single mothers and their children through various programs. - Why is Xavier Worthy focusing on Kansas City?
Worthy, raised by a single mother, understands the challenges firsthand. Kansas City has a significant population of over 61,000 single mothers raising 115,000+ children, making it an area of great need. - What kind of support does the foundation offer?
The foundation provides a range of programs including financial grants for education, financial literacy workshops, mental/emotional/physical well-being sessions, youth mentorship, sports camps, coat and shoe drives, and community engagement events. - How can I support “The Worthy 1s” mission in Kansas City?
You can donate directly to “The Worthy 1s” foundation to help fund their programs and expand their reach within the Kansas City community.
The launch of “The Worthy 1s” in Kansas City offers a new beacon of hope and practical assistance for single-parent families, demonstrating the power of community and compassion in building a stronger future for our city’s youth and their caregivers.
Chiefs Worthy foundation aids KC single mothers
