A Charlotte nonprofit is working alongside real estate developers and social service providers to end homelessness through a unique collaboration with landlords. The Lotus Campaign has been helping individuals, particularly those with criminal backgrounds, to secure housing and rebuild their lives.
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Innovative Housing Solution
The Lotus Campaign has joined forces with landlords and social service agencies to address homelessness. Their approach focuses on providing second chances for those struggling to find stable housing, including individuals with criminal records.
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Changing Lives
Mario Johnson, a recipient of the program, describes the initiative as life-changing. “It’s a dream come true,” Johnson said. After serving time for his criminal past and battling addiction, Johnson found it nearly impossible to rent a home. The Lotus Campaign, however, gave him the opportunity to restart his life.
Overcoming Barriers
Program director Geoff Brooks explained the mission of the Lotus Campaign: “We bring unexpected allies together in the private sector, landlords, and social service agencies, to help end homelessness.” The program allows individuals to overcome their past mistakes and start afresh, even in challenging circumstances.
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Partnering for Success
Jacob Jenkins, a case manager at Hope Haven, a recovery program in East Charlotte, emphasized the importance of the partnership. “We find landlords who are in neighborhoods of opportunity, landlords who understand what we do and our mission, and we work together to give individuals an opportunity they wouldn’t normally have.”
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Track Record of Success
The Lotus Campaign has helped over 600 families and individuals secure housing in Charlotte over the past five years. Their success has caught the attention of other cities, which are now looking to adopt similar models to address homelessness.
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A Fresh Start
Mario Johnson, who has been clean for five years, now works as a truck driver and is happily married. “Life is wonderful,” he shared. “I take it a day at a time, still very grateful.”
