HCCF Awards $300,000 Grant for Veteran Housing Project

The Harrison County Community Foundation (HCCF) Board of Directors recently awarded Blue River Services, Inc. (BRS) a $300,000 grant to assist in funding Eagle Court, a permanent housing facility to be constructed for homeless or at-risk-of-homelessness Veterans in Harrison County. Situated adjacent to Autumn Ridge Apartments and Sunset Ridge duplexes, just north of Corydon and west of State Road 135, Eagle Court will consist of ten duplexes with twenty total units in one or two-bedroom layouts.

This inspiring initiative is a collaboration between BRS and One Community, two local nonprofit organizations. By joining forces, they aim to address the pressing issue of affordable housing for Veterans in the community. Daniel J. Lowe, CEO of BRS, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, "The Blue River Services and One Community partnership that will develop Eagle Court is a perfect example of a positive, powerful collaboration. These two nonprofits, along with community partners like HCCF, are working together to benefit Veterans and the communities we all serve." Suann Stroud, Director of Housing for BRS, has been instrumental in bringing the project together and working to secure the needed funding.

Eagle Court goes beyond providing permanent and affordable housing. It also aims to create a safe and structured environment where Veterans can find a sense of community, purpose, belonging, self-confidence, and self-esteem at their own pace. Recognizing the challenges faced by some Veterans, such as substance abuse, incarceration, unemployment, and mental health issues, the project seeks to shift the community's approach toward meeting their specific needs. Pastor Sean Davis of One Community emphasized the importance of this endeavor, stating, "This project seeks to serve our Veterans with the honor and respect they deserve."

Julie Moorman, President & CEO of HCCF, expressed her gratitude for the men and women of the Armed Forces, saying, "Each time I stand for the national anthem or Pledge of Allegiance, I am filled with pride and appreciation for those who have served and continue to serve our country so faithfully." She further highlighted HCCF's commitment to supporting this veteran housing project as a way of honoring and assisting those who have served with dignity.

To fully fund the project, the partners are actively seeking additional financial support, with the remaining cost currently standing at approximately $400,000. In this regard, a Veterans Gala fundraiser has been scheduled for Saturday, November 11, 2023, at 6 pm. The event will take place at the Talmage Windell Memorial Agriculture Building, located on the Harrison County Fairgrounds in Corydon. Tickets can be purchased at onecommunityindiana.org, priced at $50 per person or $350 for a table of eight.

This collaborative effort between BRS, One Community, and HCCF not only addresses the critical issue of affordable housing for Veterans but also showcases the power of collaboration. By providing a nurturing environment for Veterans to thrive, Eagle Court embodies the gratitude and appreciation owed to those who have served our country selflessly.