ELI Thrive Continues Transformation in Birmingham’s East Lake Area with More New, Affordable Homes

Special to The Times ELI Thrive celebrated a significant milestone this week with the ribbon cutting for its New Housing Initiative in the East Lake neighborhood. This transformative project includes 15 new homes designed to provide safe, affordable housing for families in the Birmingham community. The event, held at 7330 2nd Avenue South, brought together supporters, local officials, and community partners to mark the completion of three homes nearing readiness for families. The program featured speeches from key stakeholders, followed by the ribbon cutting and self-guided tours of the homes. “Today, we stand on the brink of a dream that started with the desires of the families we serve. These homes will soon become spaces where memories are made, stories are told, and roots are planted in the East Lake community.” said Pam Bates, ELI Thrive’s Executive Director, who opened the ceremony by reflecting on the journey to make homeownership possible for families. “Just a year ago, we were here breaking ground. Now, these homes will soon be filled with families creating memories and building toward homeownership,” added Marta Self of the Regions Foundation. “ELI’s rent-to-own program ensures these homes won’t sit empty—they’ll become stepping stones to financial stability and...