The EDGE Finance Committee approved a $20,000 Inner City Economic Development (ICED) Loan that will assist HopeWorks with a complete restoration of their main offices. Situated along Summer Avenue in a 13,000-square-foot former bank building, HopeWorks is a not-for-profit organization that seeks to serve the under-resourced through outreach programs that help develop individual worth, encourage personal responsibility, and promote honor and value of work.
By implementing a holistic approach through daily classes and meals, educational training, and spiritual counseling, HopeWorks strives to break the cycle of crime, addiction, and generational poverty in Memphis. The Summer Avenue location will provide services to the Highland Heights and Binghampton neighborhoods.
The location is undergoing full asbestos remediation and interior remodeling in order to become a workforce training center. The Binghampton Development Corporation supports the project. The facility will employ 15 people and serve more than 60 people per week.