This is truly remarkable!
The LeBron James Family Foundation just revealed “The Village,” their new transitional housing residences for families at James’ I Promise School.
The NBA superstar announced his plan for on campus transitional housing last fall, saying, “Initially, our work was focused on helping these kids earn an education. But we’ve found that it is impossible to help them learn if they are struggling to survive — if they are hungry, if they have no heat in the freezing winter, if they live in fear for their safety. We want this place to be their home where they feel safe, supported, and loved, knowing we are right there with them every step of the way as they get back on their feet.”
James’ I Promise School opened in 2018 in his hometown of Akron, Ohio, quickly shattering ceilings and setting a new standard in education, with 90% of students meeting or exceeding academic goals. Since then the school has continued to set the bar high, from free tuition for students and student-facing documentaries, to now providing housing for entire families. The foundation partnered with Graduate Hotels to renovate a historic apartment building. The renovations took about 6 months and now, the new residences have been revealed.
Our journey with @Graduate_Hotels began in October to renovate this iconic piece of Akron architecture, built in 1923. With 23 contract companies by our side & battling a pandemic… we poured our hearts into the last 6 months so our families could have a roof over their heads. pic.twitter.com/LwmQsfL2QB
— LeBron James Family Foundation (@LJFamFoundation) July 22, 2020
“The Village” features several shared living spaces, single rooms, co-working spaces and an on-site laundry room. The foundation took to social media, sharing photos and announcing all of the hard work that has been done to complete the project. Residents will be able to occupy the housing free of rent and utilities.
Our families expressed to us they need a safe space to play and @Graduate_Hotels made sure that happened. Renovated, restructured, and outlined in a beautiful illustration by @HEBRUBRANTLEY to inspire power & hope… our kids have their space to just be kids. pic.twitter.com/auav8uaQVN
— LeBron James Family Foundation (@LJFamFoundation) July 22, 2020
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“This home will serve as transitional housing for our families who need a safe, comforting place to stay as they work through challenges they may be facing. Whether it be homelessness, domestic violence, or other unforeseen circumstances The Village is intended to provide shelter, safety and support so that students are still able to attend school as we assist the family with a long-term plan for their future success,” the Foundation tweeted.
This home will serve as transitional housing for our families who need a safe, comforting place to stay as they work through challenges they may be facing. Residents will be living without any expense…no rent or utility payments. pic.twitter.com/MqjxroInu7
advertisement— LeBron James Family Foundation (@LJFamFoundation) July 22, 2020
Thank you for all you’re doing LeBron!!
Photo Courtesy of Angelo Merendino/Getty Images/Fox 5 DC