Two years ago the west end of Brower Street in the Bissett neighborhood was a ramshackle assortment of dangerous and largely abandoned mobile homes. It was also the site for frequent illegal dumping, and experienced frequent police calls related to drugs and other crimes.
Today, it is a beautiful park, a community center and tiny houses populated by formerly homeless individuals whose new homes and environment make for fundamental transformation in their lives. All this has been accomplished through donations and many hours of volunteer time from over 100 individuals and organizations. Making this especially extraordinary is that it was all accomplished during the most difficult time of the pandemic.
BNA expresses heartfelt thanks to The Gathering Tree leadership, staff and donors, which together comprise the driving force which made this possible. Their vision and commitment has resulted in Eden Village 2.
BNA had a great experience at EV2 last November when we held a general membership meeting and pot luck Thanksgiving dinner at the community center. In addition to a great meal and meeting, we enjoyed a tour of the grounds and one of the new tiny homes. This is definitely a quality facility!
The official EV2 grand opening took place Nov. 30. Many were in attendance, including representatives of supporting churches, companies and individuals and of course the real stars: the new EV2 residents!
Jesus said, “Whatever you do for the least of my brethren, you do it to me.” Clearly the EV2 family is showing how best to embrace and help some of most vulnerable, and doing this within our Bissett neighborhood. They are exemplary in how to make Springfield a place of nurture and caring amongst all.