ST. LOUIS — A new pathway for residents, lighting and benches led up to an all-purpose center at Promise Community Homes.
For the last 50 years, the nonprofit has provided specialized housing for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, giving residents a place to live and find purpose. The organization has 90 houses throughout St. Louis County, Jefferson County, St. Charles County and the City of St. Louis, and it serves the housing needs of about 300 people.
Recently, the nonprofit was awarded $115,000 through Lowes' Hometowns grant program to improve its campus in north St. Louis County.
"Imagine our joy when we got selected as one of 100 organizations nationwide," said Gabrielle Grundy-Lester, director of development.
Grundy-Lester said the funding would enhance an existing indoor heated pool for therapy and leisure, a gym for movement and events and other enriching programming.
"They (residents) feel safe," Grundy-Lester said. "I think it is the biggest component, and they feel like they are a part of everything. So, they can come out and walk around and be on campus, walk in the community and nobody bothers them. Nobody is bothered by them."
In October, that safety was threatened away when a longtime employee was caught embezzling nearly $700,000 over man than a decade.
The funding from Lowe’s allowed for accessibility that residents did not have before, beautification and recreational resources.
"Not only did Lowes give us $115,000, but nearly 25 Lowes employees from a local Lowes store came and volunteered and helped do all of the work to make sure our campus is more accessible," Grundy-Lester said.
Staff said the partnership with Lowe’s is what allows the residents to live out their purpose.
“They are thrilled. Their family members are thrilled. The providers are thrilled. It's a great great thing."
Promise Community Homes has plans for more expansion in the coming years, including more housing and a multi-dwelling unit for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Now in year three of a five-year $100 million commitment, Lowe’s will complete another 100 signature projects – located in the hubs and heartbeats of communities nationwide - that will restore and revitalize spaces across 44 states by the end of 2024.