Christy Smucker, Founder of The Mom Community Inc, a Georgia-based nonprofit, is looking to convert a residence into a young mother support facility.
Smucker has submitted a rezoning application with the City of Atlanta because the current zoning is incompatible with the intended living space and services proposed on the property which Smucker owns.
Neighborhood Planning Unit-Y will be reviewing the requested redesignation from Single Family Residential to Low-Density Residential, along with a zoning change to low-density residential (RG-2) from Single Family (R-4) on the 1818 Lakewood Avenue SE property during their November 15th meeting, according to the NPU agenda.
According to information provided on The Mom Community website, 82% of newborns born in the 30314-zip code in the past year were born to single mothers, of which half are living in poverty. The new housing option proposed by The Mom Community will provide transitional housing for pregnant moms in a shared home for up to two years free of charge. While residing in the home, the young mothers will be required to participate in a mentoring program, educational classes and assume responsibilities in the basic upkeep of the house. Additional services provided to the tenants include basic life skills like home management, cooking, and basic home-repair skills.
The Documented Impact Analysis submitted by the applicant stated that the new use would improve the neighborhood’s character once all the improvements to the home are completed, including exterior siding replacement, a new front porch, and a new roof. In addition, the resulting increase in property values because of the improvements will further positively impact adjacent and nearby properties.
After review by Neighborhood Planning Unit-Y, the rezoning and comprehensive development plan amendment will be reviewed by the Zoning Review Board.
