Bethel singer/songwriter John Fazio Jr. performs National Anthem at Step OUT for the Brave Challenge

Beginning on Saturday, August 7^th those interested in helping Veterans experiencing homelessness can take a step forward by joining the Step OUT For The Brave 40,000 Step Challenge, presented by the Homes for the Brave organization. From Saturday, August 7 through Sunday, August 15, participants can take one step, or 40,000 or more for each of the Veterans who are homeless across our country on any given night.

The challenge, which is the organization’s signature fundraiser, allows participants to take their steps wherever they reside during the nine-day period. Through August 7 the cost is just $40 to register, after that it rises to $50. Each participant will receive a commemorative Drifit event shirt. Click here to sign up today, or to become a sponsor.

Participants can compete for prizes. Those who take the most steps, go the furthest distance, raise the most funds, post the most photos, and receive the most individual donations are just a few of the prize categories.

“While the event is a fun way to safely make a difference, the collective impact is enormous. Those who served our country and now need our assistance will be able to return to meaningful and productive lives thanks to the funds this effort will raise,” said Vince Santilli, CEO and Executive Director of ABRI/Homes for the Brave.

A festive kickoff event will take place on Saturday, August 7^th at the Pedestrian Mall accessible via Park and University Avenues on the University of Bridgeport's beautiful oceanfront campus beginning at 9:00AM. Singer, songwriter and musician John Fazio Jr. of Bethel, Connecticut will perform the National Anthem. The event is part of BPT200, a citywide celebration of Bridgeport's history and modern-day culture, cuisine, and colors. 

Since 2002, Homes for the Brave has helped over 1,400 homeless individuals, almost all of whom are Veterans, to secure income, find safe and affordable housing, and make meaningful contributions to our community.

To register, click here and for information on sponsorship opportunities please contact Vince Santilli at vsantilli@homesforthebrave.org or call 203-338-0669.

“The challenge begins in just a matter of days, we ask that you help end Veteran homelessness by joining in as an individual, a team, or as a sponsor. Every dollar raised will make a tremendous difference,” said Santilli.

Homes for the Brave would like to thank its current sponsors, including the Bridgeport Islanders; Friend of HFTB; Haynes Construction & Haynes Group; Webster Bank Arena; AT&T; BTX Global; PSEG; People's United Bank; Albertus Magnus College; Bernadette Baldino; Deadlocked Escape Rooms; King Industries; Knights of Columbus Park City Council #16; Microboard Processing; Newtown Savings Bank; T. Arduini Co. Inc.; The Original Vazzy's; Webster Bank; Liberty Printing; Tito's Handmade Vodka/Hartley & Parker Distributors; Turner Construction; Connecticare; Connecticut Community Bank; Fairfield County Bank; IPG; Mutual Security Credit Union; Petit Family Foundation; Bigelow Tea; Hirsch, Levy & Fountain, LLC; and Port 5 Women's Auxiliary.