Habitat for Humanity of Greater Chattanooga will accept online applications for its Critical Home Repair program Nov. 4-15. The program is used to address issues many homeowners over the age of 60 face as they struggle to remain in their homes.
To qualify for the program, a house must be located within the city of Chattanooga and need of critical repairs. In addition, the house must be owner-occupied and the owner’s primary residence. Finally, the owner must provide proof of ownership, have a household income totaling 50% or less of the area median income and be 60 years of age or older.
Habitat’s Critical Home Repair program offers a baker’s dozen list of improvements, repairs and replacements for homeowners selected for the program. The list includes efforts to address issues with accessibility, including wheelchair ramps, grab bars and handrails, as well as replacement of bathtubs with shower surrounds.
The program also offers assistance with gutters, exterior doors and windows, HVAC systems, plumbline, structural repairs – such as repairs to damaged floors and walls – and minor electrical repairs.
The application will be located at www.habichatt.org. If selected, a home inspection will be scheduled followed by a schedule for repairs to the property.
Girls Inc. awarded Affiliate of the Year
Girls Inc. National has named Girls Inc. of Chattanooga the 2024 Affiliate of the Year in the mid-size category.
This recognition highlights Girls Inc. of Chattanooga’s service to over 850 girls annually through programs that focus on academic success, leadership and healthy living.
Girls Inc. partners with over 20 schools and community organizations in Hamilton and Marion counties.
“This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team, board members and community partners, whose support helps us sustain impactful programs and provide a safe, empowering environment for our participants, ensuring opportunities for girls to reach their full potential,” says Toccora Petersen, CEO of the local Girls Inc.
CHA, Delta launch nonstop LaGuardia flight
The Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (CHA) has launched its returning nonstop flight to New York City’s LaGuardia Airport through Delta Air Lines. The inaugural flight took place Oct. 7.
In addition to increasing options for tourism, the flight is an economic tool that allows Chattanooga businesses to recruit investment and forge partnerships with the businesses and lenders in the New York area, noted Chattanooga Mayor Tim Kelly during a Oct. 7 launch event.
Chattanooga Airport Metropolitan Airport Authority President and CEO April Cameron and the Airport Authority worked with the mayor’s office and community partners to recruit new air service.
The CMAA operates independently of city government but is governed by a board appointed by the mayor of Chattanooga and confirmed by the city council.
Chattanooga’s previous direct flight to New York was canceled during the COVID-19 pandemic.
In December 2023, Kelly traveled to Atlanta with Cameron and officials from the Chattanooga Chamber of Commerce to meet with Delta Air Lines officials and discuss possible new flights at CHA, including the Chattanooga to LaGuardia direct flight.
“Providing local institutions and entrepreneurs with same-day return direct flights to New York will be a game-changer for companies and institutions with limited travel budgets,” says city of Chattanooga economic and workforce development senior adviser Charita Allen.
The nonstop flight departs in the morning and returns late in the evening.
Secretary of state warns about donation scams
As northeast Tennessee continues to recover from the devastating impacts of Hurricane Helene, Secretary of State Tre Hargett is reminding citizens to remain vigilant about potential scams claiming to support victims.
“National data shows Tennesseans are among the most generous givers to charitable causes. However, too often, we see bad actors targeting the good faith and kindness of Tennesseans desiring to support their neighbors in need,” Hargett says. “Anyone who’s considering donating needs to be an educated consumer.”
Hargett is urging people to ensure an individual or entity is registered with the state through sos.tn.gov/charities. Individuals should also resist pressure to give on the spot and ask questions about an organization›s mission and who will benefit from their donation.
Additionally, citizens should verify the source of the donation request, and avoid relying on social media, blogs, or web reviews as information about an organization.
Should a citizen donate through an app or website, they are encouraged to ensure their information goes directly to the organization.
Other tips include asking for a receipt and whether a contribution is tax deductible, paying close attention to the name of the nonprofit organization, and inquiring how much money is kept by the fundraiser, as well as how much goes to the nonprofit.
Donors are also encouraged to refrain from giving cash and instead use a check or credit card.