According to a recent report by the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta, housing in metro Atlanta is “unaffordable.” The Home Depot Foundation is addressing the issue through new grants totaling to more than $2.2 million and partnering with nonprofit organizations to design a series of housing programs.
These new initiatives will help keep more people in underserved neighborhoods in their homes by completing no-cost home repairs and providing additional housing units for some of the city’s most vulnerable populations, including homeless veterans.
The funds will help nonprofit organizations, including City of Refuge, Veterans Empowerment Organization and Mary Hall Freedom Village, provide nearly 50 new units of housing for individuals facing homelessness in Atlanta, the majority of which will be reserved for veterans. Grants to Quest Communities and Gateway Center will ensure veterans have access to supportive services, such as job skill training and stable housing.
More than $1 million in funding will provide critical home repairs to 100 families across Atlanta. Nonprofit partners include Atlanta Habitat for Humanity, HouseProud Atlanta and Habitat for Humanity of Northwest Metro Atlanta. These organizations help aging veterans, low-income families and residents of Atlanta’s historic Westside neighborhood with renovations, repairs and enhancements that allow them to live safely and independently in their own homes.
“As the population, home prices and rental rates continue to grow in Atlanta, many working families and modest income veterans are finding it increasingly challenging to afford safe, decent housing,” says Rosalyn Merrick, interim president and CEO of Atlanta Habitat for Humanity. “Together, Atlanta Habitat and The Home Depot Foundation have served more than 700 families since 2011. Our continued partnership helps further our vision of an Atlanta where all people have access to quality affordable housing in safe, vibrant neighborhoods with opportunities to thrive.”
The Home Depot Foundation is dedicated to driving sustainable change in the communities we serve. Visit HomeDepotFoundation.org to learn more.
