Community Cottages Open House at St. Matthew’s on April 14

From St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church
4110 River Road

Finally, our dream has been fulfilled. Our garden cottages are on site, set up, and providing a home for two wonderful people! St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church is holding an open house on April 14, from 12:00 to 1:30 p.m. at our Community Garden Cottages. There will be a cottage blessing and a tour of the grounds. Please join us for food, drinks, and meet our Residents.

Background:

Shortly after being called to St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church the Rev Lainie Allen felt compelled to help the unhoused in the Santa Clara neighborhood in north Eugene. Two years later, with St Matthew’s Leadership, the vision has become a reality – The Community Garden Cottages! It took a lot of planning and consulting with the city of Eugene to be sure the project is in compliance with the city ordinances.

A $60,000 grant from a Eugene business enabled the church to acquire two tiny cottages, provide electricity, and all necessary services.  St. Matthew’s governing body hired a caseworker to help residents to find services, apply for jobs, and support our guests in their transition to more permanent housing. The cottages are modeled after the highly successful Hospitality Village at The Episcopal Church of the Resurrection in south Eugene, which has been a vital asset to their neighbors in that community. 

Contact Matt Irvin, communications director
mirvin@carolina.rr.com
(704) 985-3395