New Fayetteville Initiative Supports Vets and Disabled Residents

A New Chapter for Homeless Veterans in Fayetteville

What began as a series of prayer walks in Fayetteville in 2023 is now leading to a significant milestone: the groundbreaking of a 16-cottage community that will offer permanent housing for homeless veterans in the area. Representatives from Fayetteville Area Operation Inasmuch announced this development on July 9, marking a major step forward in their mission to support those in need.

Fayetteville Area Operation Inasmuch is a Christian nonprofit organization dedicated to helping individuals without homes in Cumberland County. Their programs focus on relief, recovery, and restoration, aiming to guide people toward long-term stability and self-sufficiency. The organization provides essential services such as daily meals, showers, laundry facilities, medical care, and hygiene resources, along with transitional and residential housing programs.

The Vision Behind Inasmuch Cottages

The idea for the cottage community originated several years ago when Inasmuch volunteers initiated prayer walks throughout the community, seeking guidance from God on the next steps for the organization. Pastor Craig Morrison, the executive director of Inasmuch, shared that during these walks, members of the community began asking what was being done for veterans, the elderly, and people with disabilities.

After eight months of prayer walks, Morrison received a call from Mary Holmes, president and CEO of the Cumberland Community Foundation. Holmes informed him that a donor wanted to meet with him. This meeting led to the creation of the Inasmuch Cottages.

Ralph Huff, a local builder, philanthropist, and owner of Huff Family Office, played a key role in this initiative. He expressed a deep desire to build housing for veterans, and he helped start the process by securing properties and permits. Alongside his wife, Linda, the Huffs provided an initial $2 million investment to construct the 16-cottage community known as Inasmuch Village. The groundbreaking ceremony is scheduled for 10 a.m. on August 19, located about a block away from Inasmuch’s campus at 531 Hillsboro St.

“We believe everything we have achieved in our business has been made possible because of the military,” the Huffs stated in a news release. “This is just one way we can give back.”

Features of Inasmuch Village

Inasmuch Village is designed to accommodate veterans, low-income residents, and individuals with disabilities. In the coming months, Inasmuch will collaborate with local nonprofits such as Veterans Services of the Carolinas, Employment Source, and Warrior Bridge to identify potential residents for the cottages, with the first occupants expected to move in next year.

According to a news release, the inspiration for the Fayetteville project came from tiny home communities across North Carolina and the country that combine permanent housing with community support. The 600-square-foot, one-bedroom cottages at Inasmuch Village were designed by Fayetteville architect Andrew “Andy” Privette and will be fully furnished. Four of the cottages are specifically designed for individuals with disabilities.

The community will also include a gathering space, green areas, and pet-friendly accommodations. Rent will be based on a sliding scale, equal to 30% of each resident’s income, with Inasmuch overseeing the application process. Partnering organizations will provide wraparound, management, and residential services for each client.

Ways to Support the Initiative

With each cottage costing approximately $60,000, Morrison emphasized that individuals who wish to support the community’s long-term sustainability can contribute to the Village Fund. Inasmuch is also seeking cottage sponsorships of $10,000 annually for one to five years. Sponsors will receive naming rights to the cottages, according to Morrison.

All contributions will help cover operating expenses, utilities, property taxes, and maintenance, ensuring the community continues to thrive. Morrison expressed his belief that the Village will be a catalyst for community transformation, stating, “Veterans have put their lives on the line for us, and we’ve got to look out for them.”

For more information about Inasmuch Village or to learn how to support the project, contact Morrison at 910-433-2161 or visit inasmuchfay.org.