Thursday, Sept. 10, 2020
One man’s new approach to increasing the stock of affordable housing in Charlotte involves an ambitious plan and $10 million. Mike Collins talks with Heal Charlotte's Greg Jackson.
Charlotte simply doesn’t have enough affordable housing. Because of what this means to the social fabric of the city, citizens stepped up and passed several bonds so the city could work to increase the supply.
Now, a community activist wants to jump into the effort with a different kind of plan. Greg Jackson, who founded Heal Charlotte to mentor kids, reduce crime and provide rental assistance, has the goal of buying a hotel, renovating it and turning it into transitional affordable housing.
We hear about his vision and his hopes to revitalize an area that has attracted crime and human trafficking.
Guests
Greg Jackson, Founder and Executive Director of Heal Charlotte, a nonprofit organization that mentors kids, provides rental assistance and meals, works to reduce violence, and fosters community engagement. (Learn more about Heal Charlotte's capital campaign.)
Shawn Ahmad, Director of Operations for Harris Hospitality which owns Baymont Suites hotel, where Heal Charlotte is currently renting out 20 rooms to help 20 families who have been evicted or lost jobs.
Tyherrah Johnson, she is staying in one of the 20 rooms at the Baymont Suites that Heal Charlotte rents out.
