Branson nonprofit secures first sponsor for housing project

The nonprofit Elevate Branson secured the first sponsor for its tiny homes community.

Arvest Bank signed on to sponsor a home in the 48-unit Elevate Community development that's underway on 5 acres just north of the nonprofit’s 310 Gretna Road campus in Branson, according to a news release. Elevate Branson is seeking $35,000 sponsorships to cover the cost of the 400-square-foot houses, according to past Springfield Business Journal reporting.

Arvest officials yesterday delivered a $35,000 check to the nonprofit.

"We are supporting this important effort in order to give Branson workers a better chance at success," said Pam Yancey, community bank president for Arvest, in the release.

Elevate Community is designed for those who are on a fixed income living at or below the poverty line – some of whom live in extended stay motels. Elevate Branson officials say work and apprenticeship opportunities also would be available for residents.

If all 48 homes were sponsored, it would equate to nearly $1.7 million. SBJ previously reported Elevate Branson also is seeking grant funding to cover some $2 million worth of infrastructure costs for the development, with some of the sponsorship funds going toward that purpose.

The project calls on two phases with 24 homes apiece. Phase I is expected to open next year, followed by Phase II in 2022, according to past reporting. Neosho-based Village Home Builders is manufacturing the homes.