Memphis Nonprofits Team Up to Build Homes for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing
Addressing Housing Barriers for Memphis’ Deaf Community
Amidst efforts to address the number of unhoused residents in Memphis and Shelby County, two local nonprofits – Homes for Hearts and Bridges for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing – are linking arms to help the profoundly deaf and hard-of-hearing populace who face notably higher barriers in terms of securing accommodative housing and gainful employment. A Memphis-centric nonprofit, Homes for Hearts, in tandem with Bridges, which caters to the Mid-South, are bridging the gap in their individual endeavors to make a more meaningful impact.
The Genesis of the Collaboration
Homes for Hearts, helmed by Zach Waters, has been operational since 2020, since when Waters has been serving as its president, CEO, and only full-fledged employee – besides managing online courses for cake and cookie artists with his fiancée as a full-time job. The collaboration with Bridges was inspired by a story that touched them all – the story of a man named Henry Comas.
Comas, who is deaf, was evicted from his barely affordable shelter because of his three dogs, who he depended on as his “ears.” This made Comas the perfect candidate for Home for Hearts’ tiny house mission, aimed at providing affordable housing ownership for people in situations like Comas’.
Addressing Unique Challenges for the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing
Individuals like Comas often face unique hurdles like under-employment and language barriers when it comes to securing basic resources. The struggles are not limited to procuring affordable housing but extend to securing employment, which is often tied to their financial plight. For a moment, Comas even had to depart Memphis in search of a shelter.
In an incredible twist of fate, however, Comas’ return to Memphis coincided with planned provisions for a tiny home by Homes for Hearts and Bridges. The commitment of these nonprofits extends to persevering through all obstacles, including fundraising and weather delays, to ensure a comfortable accommodation for Comas and his dogs.
Power in Collaboration
Since beginning their partnership, Homes for Hearts and Bridges have successfully built three tiny homes and have facilitated homeownership for two previously unhoused Memphians. With more projects in the pipeline, including a home for Comas, Waters feels the enlisting of Bridges as a partner will only streamline further their endeavor in helping people secure comprehensive inhabitance.
“The hard work and dedication manifested by the entire team is beyond commendable,” stated Waters, “The partnership with Bridges is certainly an exciting development and we look forward to achieving our shared vision together.”
Stepping Stones towards Sustainable Housing Ownership
Housing affordability continues to be a looming issue in Memphis, and while these efforts make only a dent, they represent a vital step towards supporting the vulnerable and marginalized groups in our society, especially those facing compounded challenges. Through increased partnerships and collaboration, the dream of sustainable homeownership for all can gradually become a reality.
