Chatham Savannah homeless authority kicks off fundraising to house more veterans in tiny houses

The Chatham Savannah Authority for the Homeless announced on Monday, June 8, that it is moving forward with fundraising for Phase 2 of the Tiny House Project for 24 more veterans at The Cove at Dundee.

Executive Director Cindy Murphy Kelley, in a press release, said the total project, initiated in 2017, was slated to cost $2.6 million. To date $1.7 million has been raised, including donations of cash and in-kind support from more than 500 individuals, businesses and charitable foundations.

Phase 1 was completed in the fall of 2019 at a cost of $1.4 million and currently houses 23 formerly homeless United States military veterans.

Now, Phase 2 is projected to cost $1.2 million including all infrastructure and building for 24 more tiny homes and a second clubhouse. To date, approximately $340,000 in cash and pledges has been raised to support Phase 2.

Although COVID-19 has delayed fundraising efforts for three months, an active search has now begun for donors who are willing to invest in the project and help cover the $860,000 in remaining costs. Initial groundbreaking and construction are slated for fall 2020, and donations of all sizes are being accepted, Kelley said.

"Unfortunately, even as things are reopening, the pandemic may continue to hinder our efforts, particularly with some volunteer construction events," she said. "There is also a time sensitivity issue regarding the building permits, as well as the ongoing pressing need in our community for affordable housing, which may become worse with a continued downturn in the economy."

"The Tiny House Project is now more important than it ever was, especially considering the dire need for everyone to have a safe place to social distance and wash their hands."

Of the approximately 675 chronically homeless individuals in Chatham County, over 200 of them are United States military veterans.

Kelley said the project is Georgia's first effort dedicated to reducing veteran homelessness by providing a community of permanent, affordable tiny homes.

The community includes all utilities, a tiny medical clinic, and a clubhouse. Residents have access to support staff and case managers, employment search assistance, skill-building workshops, and nutrition and health training, all with an emphasis on building self-sufficiency.

All residents of the Cove at Dundee pay rent and are expected to meet their daily needs with their income.

To donate or for more information, visit tinyhousesavannah.org or call 912-644-7945.

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