For nearly two decades, Nick Lowery’s Champions for the Homeless has been a beacon of hope, dignity, and compassion for our most vulnerable neighbors. Since its very first event at St. Vincent de Paul in downtown Phoenix, Champions has grown into a one-of-a-kind community tradition — bringing together athletes, celebrities, musicians, and everyday volunteers to serve meals, share gifts, and most importantly, put a human face on homelessness.
We just celebrated our 73rd event, Champions for the Homeless has touched thousands of lives with food, clothing, shoes, music, flowers, and the simple but powerful gift of love and connection. At every gathering, volunteers and guests come together in an atmosphere of joy, respect, and unity — proving that when people stand side by side, barriers break down and hope shines through.
As homelessness continues to rise in Phoenix — with more than a million residents facing eviction in recent years — Champions for the Homeless remains committed to being a bridge of compassion and action. We invite you to join us, whether by volunteering, donating, or simply spreading the word, in making sure no one feels forgotten.
The heart of Champions for the Homeless is the incredible community of volunteers who give their time, energy, and compassion to make every event possible. From athletes and musicians who share their talents, to families, students, and church groups who serve meals and hand out clothing, each volunteer brings kindness, dignity, and joy to our guests. Together, they create a welcoming atmosphere filled with music, laughter, and love — reminding every person experiencing homelessness that they are not forgotten. Without this army of selfless volunteers, Champions for the Homeless would not be the life-changing movement it has become.
Homelessness is not just a housing crisis — it’s a human crisis. Behind every statistic is a person with a story, a struggle, and a dream for a better tomorrow. In Phoenix alone, more than a million people have faced eviction in recent years, and the need for compassion and community has never been greater. Champions for the Homeless exists to meet this need, bringing dignity, hope, and tangible support to those who are too often overlooked. Here’s why it matters.
At Champions for the Homeless, the mission goes beyond meals and clothing — it’s about restoring dignity. Every handshake, smile, and conversation reminds our guests that they are valued human beings, not just statistics. By putting a face and a story to homelessness, we build compassion and understanding across the community.
The reality is stark: for every one person who leaves homelessness in Phoenix, two more enter it. Through food, clothing, shoes, hygiene items, and gift cards, Champions for the Homeless provides immediate relief to those facing daily hardship. These essentials can mean the difference between surviving another week on the streets or finding the strength to keep going.
Champions events unite volunteers from all walks of life — students, families, business leaders, athletes, and faith communities — in one common purpose: lifting up others. These gatherings transform service into celebration, filling St. Vincent de Paul’s halls with music, laughter, and fellowship. It’s proof that when we come together, real change is possible.
Homelessness can strip away a person’s sense of hope, but Champions events remind every guest that they are not forgotten. A warm meal, a rose, a new pair of shoes, or even a simple word of encouragement can reignite a spark of possibility. By inspiring hope, Champions for the Homeless helps guests take steps toward rebuilding their lives — and reminds us all that hope is contagious.
We are very grateful for your contribution to our Foundation, bringing a Human face to the Homeless, newfound Focus, Confidence and Purpose to the next generation, particularly Native Youth, and a bully-free, healthy learning environment in our schools. If your donation helps one person, you WILL make an impact. Sincere thank you for helping our youth find the heroes and higher purpose in themselves.
Contribute a tax-deductible gift of $50 or more gift, c/o the Nick Lowery Youth Foundation
(a registered Arizona non-profit) and receive a personally autographed Nick Lowery Kansas City Chiefs Hall of Fame autographed Leroy Neiman Print
Contribute tax-deductible gift of $150, receive a personally autographed NFL Kansas City Chiefs Hall of Fame football.
Champions for the Homeless is a community outreach program founded by Nick Lowery that brings food, clothing, music, and hope to people experiencing homelessness in Phoenix. Since its first event, it has partnered with St. Vincent de Paul to host over 70 gatherings, each focused on restoring dignity and putting a human face on homelessness.
Champions for the Homeless events are typically held several times a year, often around holidays and other key times when extra support is needed. Each event is hosted at St. Vincent de Paul in downtown Phoenix and welcomes hundreds of guests.
Volunteers come from all walks of life — students, families, church groups, athletes, business leaders, and community members. Children over the age of 10 are welcome if accompanied by a parent or guardian. Volunteers help serve meals, hand out clothing and gifts, and most importantly, share kindness and conversation with guests.
You can sign up to volunteer by visiting our Volunteer page and filling out the registration form. Spots often fill quickly, so we encourage you to sign up early. You’ll receive an email with details on what to bring, what to wear, and how to prepare for the event.
There are several ways to support Champions for the Homeless financially:
Monetary Donations: Your contribution helps us purchase food, clothing, shoes, hygiene items, and supplies for events. Donations Page
Gift Cards: $5 McDonald’s gift cards are especially appreciated, as they allow our guests to enjoy a meal with dignity outside of event hours.
In-Kind Donations: Items like socks, shoes, underwear, leggings, and seasonal clothing are always needed.
100% of donations go directly to serving individuals experiencing homelessness at Champions for the Homeless events. Every dollar and item donated becomes part of the love and support we share with our guests.
Absolutely! Even if you can’t be there in person, your donation or spreading the word about Champions for the Homeless makes a real difference. Sharing our mission with friends, family, or on social media helps raise awareness and brings more people into the movement of compassion.
