$308K Grant Powers Evansville’s Promise Home to Support Homeless Residents

ECHO Housing and Community Development, in partnership with the United Way of Southwestern Indiana, has secured a $308,322 capital project grant from Indiana United Ways to complete its new supportive housing project, Promise Home, at 313 Read Street in Evansville. This grant will enable ECHO to provide stable housing and critical support services to some of Evansville’s most vulnerable residents.

Promise Home: Addressing Chronic Homelessness in Evansville

Promise Home will offer 27 one-bedroom apartments to individuals who have experienced homelessness for over a year. According to a January 2024 survey by the Evansville Commission on Homelessness, 71 people in the area are chronically homeless. Promise Home aims to bridge this gap by providing stable housing and comprehensive on-site support.

A New Model for Supportive Housing

Promise Home is designed with a “Housing First” approach, which prioritizes securing stable housing before focusing on other challenges residents may face. In addition to permanent housing, residents will have access to case management and wraparound services, including life skills development, transportation assistance, technology access, and private meeting spaces. These resources offer residents a one-stop model of care, helping them regain stability and independence.

Empowering the Community and Reducing Strain on Services

Savannah Wood, CEO of ECHO, emphasized that Promise Home is more than just housing. “Promise Home represents hope and a second chance,” Wood shared. “It’s a place where residents can find stability, regain dignity, and rebuild their lives.” Beyond individual benefits, Promise Home is expected to reduce the community’s overall healthcare costs and lessen the demand on emergency services.

What’s Next for Promise Home

With construction complete, ECHO is finalizing rental assistance vouchers through the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority (IHCDA). Leasing is set to begin in November 2024, with residents chosen through the Region 12 Balance of State Coordinated Entry Process, managed by local partner Aurora.

For updates on Promise Home and other ECHO initiatives, follow ECHO Housing Corporation on social media or visit echohousing.org.

Administrative Offices

528 Main Street, Suite 202
Evansville IN 47708

Main Service Delivery

414 Baker Ave
Evansville, IN 47710

812-423-8422
info@echohousing.org