Isaiah 117 House opens in Hamilton County

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – A new Isaiah 117 House opened on Monday at the Chambliss Center in Hamilton County.  

This is the 20th Isaiah 117 House to be built in Tennessee. 

New Isaiah 117 House at Chambliss Center

“We cut the ribbon and opened our doors to the children and teens of Hamilton County, to serve those who have just been removed from homes and entering the foster care system,” said John Hunter, Isaiah 117 House project coordinator.

The Isaiah 117 House is a place where kids can catch their breath in a safe environment.

Children can expect a warm welcome that will make them feel loved. 

“When children or teens come through. they are welcomed by volunteers,” said Hunter. “They get a bath, a cooked meal, they get to play games, basketball, Mario Kart, and they get to be a child in a very adult time.” 

Isaiah 117 House provides clothing to children as well. 

“We want them to know that all of this is here. This is God’s plan for them. God knew they were coming, and he always goes before them,” said Ronda Paulson, founder and executive director for Isaiah 117 House. And you know we have children that wakes up in that giving room and they have a physical reaction. They start to cry.” 

Isaiah 117 House and the Chambliss Center help thousands of kids.

Organizers say despite longer stays at the Isaiah 1:17 house, they want to make sure children are taken care of. 

“We have seen longer stays. Our hope once again is about three days max about 72 hours and then placement is found,” said Paulson. “But we want to be here for that child as they wait for that placement.”