The San Diego Foundation has shelled out $90,000 to local hero Dr. Kwane Stewart, known for dedicating his life to providing free veterinary care to pets belonging to the homeless population. The grant, awarded on Wednesday, adds to the feel-good story of the 2023 CNN Hero of the Year, who decided to share his $100,000 prize money with the other nine finalists, keeping just $10,000 for his own nonprofit, Project Street Vet.

This altruistic vet, who's been on the ground running a street-level mission to heal animals for over a decade, snagged the CNN Hero top spot for his tireless work. According to the Times of San Diego, Stewart's whole saga began when he offered a simple, on-the-fly skin condition treatment to a dog with a homeless owner outside a convenience store. The gratitude he received was enough to spark a decade-long quest to serve those in need, and their furry companions, throughout the community.

Mark Stuart, President and CEO of the San Diego Foundation, praised Stewart's work, noting it as "commendable, touching countless lives of the most vulnerable among us and their beloved pets." He added, in a statement obtained by the Times of San Diego, the foundation's hope that the grant "will help him continue to make a difference in the community," inspiring others with his selfless acts.

The funds are sourced from The Linda C. Scott Fund for Animal Welfare, maintained by The San Diego Foundation, even after its namesake's passing in 2016. This grant will support the ongoing efforts of Stewart's Encinitas-based nonprofit, which not only offers care but embodies kindness and nonjudgment in their mission to help pets and their owners navigate the hardships of homelessness, outlined by the San Diego Foundation.

With an additional $300,000 Elevate Prize to his name, Stewart's agenda for aiding those on the streets has just gained a significant boost.