There has been tremendous progress to date at the site. Architectural and engineering plans have been completed; fruit trees and bushes are growing on the hillsides; all trash has been removed from each unit; asbestos abatement and all interior demolition have been completed; there is power and water at the site, and they have selected a general contractor.
Due to the need to move forward quickly with just one building, the plans were revised so that it will be specifically for the members of the community and some common space. Because of this, Castanea chose to invest their own personal finances toward this first building rather than purchase and rehab it under the nonprofit. They are in the process of securing that loan, and just ask for your prayers as they move forward.
However, their nonprofit’s activities reach much further than the management of affordable housing on that hillside, so Castanea continues to need support and donations so that they can continue their work. Additionally, they are seeking investors or partners in the creation of affordable housing in the second phase of the project, so please contact a community member if you would like to partner with them. There are many possibilities for that 6,000 square feet, and they would love to talk with you about other ideas for that space as well.
We are delighted and humbled to have such generous support and are excited about the increasing momentum in the campaign. We are continually encouraged by the students and professors from Trevecca, various youth groups or churches, and others have been inspired by this mixed model of community, faith and sustainability – where everyday Christians cast their lot with resettled refugees, formerly homeless families and oppressed individuals recovering from society’s wounds.
