CHA awarded grant to enhance Emma Wheeler Homes

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) — The Chattanooga Housing Authority (CHA) received a $20,000 grant for the Butterfly Effect Program, going toward enhancements at the Emma Wheeler Homes (EWH).

CHA will use the grant to enhance community resilience and natural disaster preparedness at EWH. It will also go toward reestablishing and expanding community gardens and offering environmental education.

The EWH participated in the Resilient Communities pilot program meant to engage residents in using nature-based solutions in environmental challenges. Thrive Regional Partnership and the Open Space Institute designed this program. It will enhance quality of life in underserved areas, according to CHA.

(from left: Joel Houser – Open Space Institute, Kenya Elston – EWH Resident, Cherayl Maston – EWH Resident, Geri Lovain – CHA ROSS Coordinator, Michael White – EWH Resident, Rhett Bentley – Thrive Regional Partnership)

“We are thrilled with the partnerships that brought the Butterfly Effect Program to fruition,” said CHA executive director Betsy McCright. “We are excited about the difference the Resilience Advisory Group will make at Emma Wheeler Homes and look forward to the seeds being literally and figuratively planted throughout the community that will lead to success.”

CHA explains that the Butterfly Effect Program is based on the “butterfly effect” theory that a small change can have a large impact elsewhere.

The Butterfly Effect Program allows a Resilience Advisory Group from EWH to develop a leadership team and receive training.