One year ago, AMY Wellness Foundation (AMYWF) celebrated the grand opening of Ellis Lofts, a groundbreaking effort to provide affordable workforce housing in downtown Spruce Pine. Today, AMYWF is proud to highlight the vibrant community at Ellis Lofts apartments. Located in the heart of downtown, Ellis Lofts provides suitable housing for our local workforce, pivotal in bolstering our local economy and increasing the retention of talented individuals in our area. By offering affordable and convenient living options, Ellis Lofts enables residents to thrive personally and professionally.
Among the residents are young professionals working in various fields such as healthcare, marketing, retail, and community services. These individuals, ranging in age from their early 20s to late 20s, bring diverse skills and passions to our community.
- Healthcare Workers: Our residents include medical assistants, front desk personnel in medical facilities, and former interpreters who now support medical services. Their roles are crucial in ensuring that our community has access to essential healthcare services. By living close to their workplaces, they can provide timely and efficient care, contributing to Spruce Pine residents’ overall health and well-being.
- Retail and Customer Service Professionals: Some residents work in retail positions, such as overnight stockers and social media specialists for local businesses. Their efforts help maintain the vitality of our local economy by ensuring that businesses operate smoothly and effectively. They also enhance customer experiences, which is vital for the growth and sustainability of local enterprises.
- Community Services: Individuals working with organizations like MedServe, funded by AmeriCorps, provide medical assistance ensuring community members have the support they need to thrive.
- The Retail Space: In addition to housing, Ellis Lofts also features an affordable retail space occupied by Elvie & Dorthy B’s Book Boutique. This charming boutique offers a wide array of inspirational gifts, Bibles, devotionals, journals, and over 250 book titles. The shop also provides gourmet foods, greeting cards, and coffee, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for the community. Open Monday through Friday from 10 AM to 5 PM and Saturday from 10 AM to 3 PM, Elvie & Dorthy B’s has become a beloved local addition to the downtown community.
The housing provided by Ellis Lofts supports these essential workers, ensuring they can live close to their workplaces. This proximity reduces commute times, enhances their overall quality of life, and allows them to be more engaged in their roles within the community. “As a young professional in Mitchell County, my time at Ellis Lofts was incredibly beneficial,” said an Ellis Loft tenant. “The environment provided opportunities to live and interact with other young professionals, fostering a sense of community and shared experiences. Being downtown, I was always close to various activities and events, which enriched my social life and professional network. Though I have since moved from Ellis Lofts, the experience had a lasting impact on my housing choices. The affordability and convenience of Ellis Lofts allowed me the flexibility to find a new living situation that was best for me and my partner without the pressure of a strict timeline or unfavorable conditions,” said the tenant.
Ellis Lofts apartments are more than just a place to live; it’s a community that supports and nurtures its’ residents. By providing affordable housing in the downtown area, AMY Wellness Foundation ensures that talented individuals can remain in our community, contributing to economic growth and stability. The diverse group of residents at Ellis Lofts exemplifies the positive impact of suitable housing on workforce retention and local economic development. AMYWF is grateful to everyone who has supported this project over the last year.
For more information on the Ellis Lofts or AMY Wellness Foundation and how you can support your community, please reach out to Luke Howe at [email protected]
