Tiny homes for victims of giant storm
Lowe’s and a community of builders will construct 17 tiny homes on wheels in Charlotte and the company will purchase another 50 homes built by Incredible Tiny Homes at its Newton, Tenn. facility.
Homes built in both locations will be donated by Lowe’s and installed before Christmas Eve for individuals and families in need of shelter in Western North Carolina. With a significant number of homes damaged by Hurricane Helene, safe and warm temporary shelter remains one of the most urgent needs. Homes will be delivered and installed in Avery and Buncombe counties through a partnership with BeLoved Asheville and Appalachia Service Project.
In addition to funding from Lowe’s, the Charlotte build is being supported by an enormous volunteer effort. Danny Kelly, Jr. of Kelly McArdle Construction donated his time to develop the tiny home travel trailer prototype, along with his team and volunteers from Waterworks Plumbing and Bill’s Electric. This week, Lowe’s volunteers will work alongside skilled volunteers from the Home Builders Association of Greater Charlotte, Habitat for Humanity of the Charlotte Region and Advance Roofing and Exteriors to build the homes. Industrial developer, SunCap Property Group donated the warehouse space in partnership with the Home Builders Association of Greater Charlotte to host the build. A portion of the tools will be supplied by the Charlotte Community ToolBank.
On Dec. 19 NASCAR haulers began loading the completed tiny homes for delivery to Western North Carolina.
Incredible Tiny Homes jumped at the opportunity to join the impactful initiative, spreading comfort and joy through urgent housing solutions this holiday season, Lowe's said. The company’s workshop, with the ability to build three homes per day, is constructing high-quality, durable tiny homes, providing a safe, cozy haven for those affected by Hurricane Helene.
The tiny-home initiative is part of Lowe’s $12 million pledge to support relief and recovery efforts in the wake of the devastation in Western North Carolina from Hurricane Helene and the extensive damage from Hurricane Milton in Florida. Donations have also supported first responders, local nonprofits and small businesses, including launching the Lowe’s Western North Carolina Small Business Recovery Fund.
