Fischer Homes employees and trade partners recently joined forces with nonprofit organization HomeAid Atlanta on May 5 a HomeAid Care Day. The event took place at The Drake House in Roswell, where volunteers from the building industry worked together to create a new facility aimed at empowering women and their children experiencing homelessness. The Care Day focused on transforming a former daycare center into what will soon be known as The Drake Marketplace. This repurposing effort not only benefited the organization but also made a positive impact on the lives of those in need.
The main objective of the Care Day was to repurpose the former daycare center at The Drake House into The Drake Marketplace. With the assistance of approximately 30 Fischer Homes volunteers, the building’s entire interior was painted, new doors were installed, and various other improvements were made. One notable change was the demolition of an old ramp, which was rebuilt to ensure compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). These renovations will provide The Drake House clients with an expanded food pantry “shopping” experience and improved laundry facilities, addressing critical needs within the community.
Fischer Homes expressed their commitment to the cause by collaborating with several trade partners who supported the HomeAid Care Day at The Drake House. The following partners contributed to the success of the event:
- Reliance Heating and Cooling
- RZ Framing
- San John Carpentry
- Victory Mortgage
- Wilkins Electric
- Woodson Drywall
Additionally, Timberlake Cabinetry generously donated and installed new cabinets and shelves throughout the facility. These partnerships and donations played a crucial role in the completion of the project, resulting in a construction cost savings of nearly $20,000 for The Drake House.
The work carried out by the Care Day volunteers, coupled with material donations, has directly benefited The Drake House and its residents. The cost savings achieved will enable The Drake House to allocate funds towards supporting women like Alexis, who found herself homeless alongside her special needs teenage son. Prior to seeking refuge at The Drake House, Alexis faced numerous challenges, including eviction from two different apartments. Despite having income from child support and SSI, securing employment remained elusive. However, after moving into The Drake House, Alexis obtained full-time employment and diligently saved her income. She also participated in a matched savings program sponsored by the United Way, which allowed her to pay off utility bills and negotiate settlements for rental debt. Through the support of The Drake House, Alexis regained her independence and found suitable housing for herself and her son. Grateful for her rapid progress, she attributes her newfound happiness to The Drake House.
HomeAid Atlanta, a nonprofit organization founded in 2001, aims to assist individuals experiencing or at risk of homelessness by helping them rebuild their lives through construction, community engagement, and education. Their mission involves renovating and maintaining facilities for nonprofits serving the homeless population. Over the years, HomeAid has successfully completed more than 170 construction projects, benefiting diverse groups such as victims of domestic violence, teen mothers, and veterans. They have accomplished these projects through their extensive network of building industry professionals and community organizations. HomeAid also provides essential items like diapers, wipes and hygiene products to individuals affected by homelessness. The organization is proudly affiliated with the Greater Atlanta Home Builders Association.
For more information, visit www.HomeAidAtlanta.org.