UPDATE
Burke was evicted. We tried everything to stop it, but it wasn’t enough. In the same week, he fell and was taken to the VA hospital, where he’s been ever since. He has no home to return to. Burke is now showing signs of dementia, and he will need safe housing and the right kind of memory care support.
Thank you to everyone who has donated and shared this campaign so far. Your help will make a difference. None of the funds raised so far have been spent — they’re still safely in the GoFundMe account, and they will be used directly for Burke’s housing once we secure a placement. Now that he’s in the VA with nowhere to go, we’re stepping up our efforts even more and trying to raise much more so we can help him get into safe housing, cover essential care, and give him dignity and support at 97 years old.
We’re continuing this fundraiser because the same problem still exists — Burke needs a home, and he needs memory care. Please share this campaign so we can reach more people and get Burke the help he needs.
Burke wasn’t alone for Thanksgiving. We spent the holiday with him at the VA hospital. Here’s a picture of Burke and FHK on Thanksgiving Day
Below, you can read the original story and see where we started and how we got here.
Original Story:
I met Burke a few years ago. He’s my friend. He’s 97 years old — and he really needs your help.
I’m Frank and I'm 19 years old. On paper, we’ve got nothing in common — but Burke has become family.
Right now, Burke is facing eviction and they’re going to kick him out of his apartment. That means leaving the community he knows, the neighborhood of Linden Hills, where he can walk safely every day, and the friends and shop owners who look out for him.
Burke walks miles and miles every day. It’s his freedom, his independence, and his joy, talking with people on his daily journey.
He’s outlived his family. This community is his family. This is the only home he’s known for decades — and we have to fight to keep him here.
I just can’t let this happen to Burke. The clock is ticking, and I’m asking for your help.
Burke is tough. Rain, snow, or sleet — he still walks 3–4 miles daily. His shoes wear out so fast that his last pair was held together with duct tape.
He tells stories you won’t find in books — about wars, heartbreak, and huge changes in the world — and always greets everyone (dogs too) with kindness and respect.
He keeps on going, never complaining or asking for anything. He has too much pride, but I can see it now. He’s really struggling, and he needs our help.
We’re raising funds to:
- Secure his housing through April 2026.
- Cover basics like food, utilities, and essentials.
- Provide housekeeping and nursing visits.
- Fix his teeth so he can eat again.
The Goal
Core Goal – $18,650
Rent (through April 2026): $12,000
Utilities: $900
Food & Essentials: $2,000
Grooming & Clothing: $500
Housekeeping (2x/month): $1,250
Visiting Nurse (1x/week): $2,000
Stretch Goal – $38,650
Everything above + full dental work ($20,000).
Our first target is to stop the eviction threat. Every dollar after that keeps Burke safe, healthy, and independent.
This isn’t just about an apartment — it’s about a life. Burke is part of the soul of this neighborhood, and he’s determined to live to 100 and beyond.
Please donate if you can — and if you can’t (or even if you can), PLEASE SHARE! And subscribe to FHK on YouTube so you can see the difference you’re making in real time.
Let’s keep Burke in the neighborhood... below you can watch the FHK videos we’ve done together — you’ll see why he’s worth fighting for.
With gratitude,
Frank a.k.a. FHK
P.S. We’re also setting up a SAVE BURKE COLLECTION at FHKercom
Support Burke with this limited collection—100% of proceeds go to his care. Wear it proudly, make a difference, and please share this story to help keep the dream alive.
VIDEOS WITH BURKE ON FHK YOUTUBE
They’re Evicting Burke — A 97-Year-Old Veteran… PL EASE Watch This
Organizer
