The New Heights CCDA only has about $50,000 left to go to reach its $1.3 million goal for a new laundry hub and community center in Benton Heights. Director Chris Britton tells us the AEP Foundation made a donation of $70,000 in July, pushing them up to $1.2 million raised. A $50,000 match has been offered by a private supporter, meaning they’re just about there. Britton says many people don’t realize how important access to laundry facilities is.
“Whirlpool has actually done studies that have shown how access to clean laundry, something that’s so simple, positively influences school attendance and the ability for a household to maintain meaningful employment,” Britton said.
Britton says there’s no laundromat with 4.4 miles of where the new center is going. In addition, community partners will offer human services resources at the center.
“Things like legal services or financial coaching or even health consultations. We’ll have partners like Corewell Health or Summit for Financial Wellness, the Mosaic CCDA. They’ll be there and be able to perform outreach.”
Ground on the facility at 2121 Red Arrow Highway was broken in April and Britton says construction has been going well. When it’s complete in the fall, New Heights will host a celebration. Britton says anyone can make a donation to help them clear the last fundraising hurdle. Just go to the New Heights CCDA’s website.
