Program will provide stable homes to young mothers and children experiencing homelessness
ATLANTA, GA (June 28, 2022) – CHRIS 180, an Atlanta-based nonprofit organization dedicated to providing trauma-informed mental health services for children, youth and families, recently hosted a ribbon cutting and grand opening of The Glover Project, a transitional housing option for young mothers and their children who are experiencing homelessness.
CHRIS 180 collaborated with longtime Westside Atlanta resident Deborah Glover to execute the project. Mrs. Glover lived in a shed on the property for more than 20 years. Glover became acquainted with the organization through its Westside Empowerment Center, and when staff learned of her situation, they stepped in to help. With the expertise of the MicroLife Institute, the idea was birthed to house not just Glover in a permanent, safe space, but also to provide shelter to young women and their children who needed temporary housing and to offer Mrs. Glover the opportunity to provide grandmotherly guidance. After 11 months of construction, the home is now complete and has brought new life to the Washington Park neighborhood on the Westside.
“During a housing crisis across our city, this project will provide support to young mothers trying to find safety during difficult times.” said Kathy Colbenson, LMFT, President and Chief Executive Officer of CHRIS 180. “Our hope is that this community project is the first and can be replicated to help address the problem of homelessness across Metro Atlanta. It can be one of many necessary solutions. We are grateful to Mrs. Glover for being willing to help us pilot this innovative program.”
At any given time, up to two single mothers with a young child will live in the Glover home in their own units and receive wraparound support from CHRIS 180 and guidance from Mrs. Glover as they transition to a more stable life. The mothers will be placed in the home through CHRIS 180’s Outreach and Community Housing Program.
Glover, who was visibly moved to tears at the ribbon cutting ceremony in June shared, “It’s a tremendous blessing. The word blessing only partially describes it.”
Funding for the Glover project was provided by title sponsor Atlanta Women’s Health Group, Amerigroup Community Care, Georgia Power Company, MicroLife Institute and loved ones of the late Lisa Galm.
About CHRIS 180
CHRIS 180 was founded in 1981 and provides life-changing trauma-informed behavioral health services and wraparound support to children, adults and families that empowers them to change the direction of their lives. For more information, visit CHRIS180.org.
Chaundra Luckett is the Chief Marketing Officer at CHRIS 180. To reach her, email marketing@CHRIS180.org
