Sugaree Place Ribbon Cutting
Rev. Peter Wherry, pastor of Mayfield Memorial Baptist Church, was more than aware of the need for affordable housing in Mecklenburg County. The critical need was evident in the individuals walking up and down Sugar Creek Road as well as within his own church family. When Dr. Wherry looked out his office window all he could see were three crack houses, evidence of shattered lives, and a broken neighborhood. Dr. Wherry had a vision, a love for his neighbors. and a love for his Hidden Valley neighborhood. After seven years of numerous obstacles, opposition, and struggles, Dr. Wherry assisted in cutting the ribbon for Sugaree Place.
Dr. Wherry invited two friends and fellow ministers, Dr. Ben Boswell, Myers Park Baptist Church and Dr. Bob Henderson, Covenant Presbyterian Church to join him on this journey. These three men were able to engage many state, city, and county politicians and stakeholders to join them. Truist Bank and Dream Key Partners, two vital partners, lauded the work of Dr. Wherry, Dr. Boswell, and Dr. Henderson and their churches in supporting this vision.
Sugaree Place has a unique concept. There are fifty-one, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments for only low-income individuals (30% to 80% of Area Media Income). Individuals and families can access wraparound services of medical care, mental health care, and other support services to help them thrive. Amenities include a leasing office, laundry facilities, fitness center, and community room and are ADA compliant.
The revitalization of Hidden Valley is much broader than a single affordable housing building. The Mayfield Community Development Corporation (Mayfield CDC) will continue the regeneration of Hidden Valley and redream the dream of a Hidden Valley neighborhood that was once a thriving and a middle-class neighborhood. MPBC church members Robert Barfield and Robert Dulin serve as Board Members on the Mayfield CDC.
Are you interested in helping revitalize Hidden Valley?
Hola Community Health Workers are health ambassadors to connect their Hidden Valley neighbors with support.
Contact: Nancy Hudson
Community Gardens near Sugar Creek Recreation Center and MLK Middle School.
Contact: Paula Fricke
ASE’ Afterschool is located in Mayfield Memorial Baptist
Contact:
, Director, Bethany Wherry.