Chattanooga, TN – The City of Chattanooga announced a new partnership with the Maclellan Foundation, the Community Foundation of Greater Chattanooga and the Generosity Trust to bring Enterprise Community Partners’ Faith-Based Development Initiative to the area.
The program is designed to help houses of worship turn underutilized land into affordable homes and community assets through technical assistance, grant funding and connections to qualified development partners.
Mayor Tim Kelly noted that many houses of worship own unused property that could play a meaningful role in addressing local housing needs. He said the initiative builds on nearly two decades of national experience from Enterprise Community Partners, which has supported faith-based organizations across the country.
Enterprise’s program has already helped create more than 1,900 affordable homes nationwide, with another 8,000 in development. By bringing the initiative to Chattanooga, Enterprise aims to help congregations use their land for long-term community benefit.
Dr. Christie Cade, Vice President and Southeast Market Leader for Enterprise Community Partners, said faith communities have long been anchors of stability, and this collaboration will help translate that mission into tangible housing solutions. She emphasized that Enterprise looks forward to working directly with congregations interested in developing affordable homes.
The local effort will begin with a Clarion Call event at the Downtown Chattanooga Public Library on January 7 from noon to 2:30 p.m. Leaders from all faith traditions are invited to attend and learn about the city’s affordable housing needs. Enterprise will provide an overview of the program and examples of successful projects from the Southeast.
Chris Maclellan, Chairman Elect of the Maclellan Foundation, said the organization is proud to support the initiative as part of its commitment to strengthening the role of the church in helping the community. He said the partnership offers a practical way to expand affordable housing in Chattanooga.
After the Clarion Call, congregations may apply to join the Chattanooga cohort of the Faith-Based Development Initiative. Eight will be selected for a three-year program offering training, pre-development grant funding and individual technical support.
Maeghan Jones, President and CEO of the Community Foundation of Greater Chattanooga, said complex issues like affordable housing require trusted community institutions working together. She noted that faith communities are well positioned to meet this need through both leadership and stewardship of their land.
Dr. James R. Barber, President of the Generosity Trust, added that many churches already plan to use their property for affordable housing, and Enterprise’s involvement comes at an ideal time to support those efforts.
Faith leaders interested in attending the Clarion Call may register online.