MLB, Phillies Charities unveil renovated 'Independence Floor' for veterans in Old City

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- The Veterans Multi-Service Center in Old City officially opened its newly renovated Independence Floor, a project supported through a partnership between Major League Baseball and Phillies Charities.

Retired U.S. Army Reserve Sgt. Cyndee Shankin said the name reflects the goal of the project.

"Naming this the Independence Floor is perfect because that's exactly what we are here to help our veterans reclaim: independence," Shankin said.

The new space was made possible through MLB Together, a partnership involving Major League Baseball and Phillies Charities. Former Phillies players Kenny Lofton and Shane Victorino were among the former professional baseball players who attended the event, which coincides with All-Star Week.

MLB Commissioner Robert Manfred Jr. said the project represents an opportunity for the league to support its host city.

"It's an opportunity for Major League Baseball to give back to a host city that does so much for us during a week like this," Manfred said.

The five-month renovation transformed a rarely used room filled with boxes and shopping carts into a space where veterans can access services, including housing and employment assistance.

Pennsylvania Lt. Gov. Austin Davis praised the effort to support veterans and military families.

"We owe our veterans and military families a deep debt of gratitude that we'll never truly be able to repay," Davis said.

As part of the project, MLB and Phillies Charities also installed a new elevator to improve access to the renovated fifth floor.

"The elevator removed a barrier for full and complete access by our veterans in the programs and services," said Joe Brooks, executive director of the Veterans Multi-Service Center. He added that, oftentimes, workers at the facility would carry veterans who had mobility challenges up the stairs to be able to access services on upper floors.

According to event organizers, MLB Together is making a $5.5 million investment in local projects aimed at empowering underserved communities, and the Veterans Multi-Service Center renovation is one of those projects.

The celebration also included an appearance by the Phillie Phanatic.

Veteran Aaron Thompson said the project will help those seeking a fresh start.

"This helps veterans to get started from the ground up to move forward," Thompson said.

In addition to supporting veterans, MLB and Phillies Charities are backing programs that provide educational and nutritional resources and expand access to baseball and softball for youth.