Program areas at Renew Birmingham
Ensley renaissance festival: held on saturday, august 3, 2024 as a neighborhood gathering and for an introduction of Renew Birmingham to the community. Musicians and other artists performed for those in attendance. Antique cars were also on display. Over 250 ensley area residents attended, got to know each other and talked about how to change the culture in the ensley neighborhoods.
Assisting the ensley area residents with obtaining affordable and safe housing is one of Renew Birmingham's main focus areas. In 2024, over 160 ensley residents receieved financial assisstance totaling $282,188 with past due or delinquent rents, utility payments, and other critical repairs to their homes in the service area. In addition, 31 elderly residents received help with lawn maintenance. Canterbury united methodist foundation and navigate affordable housing provided financial grants totaling $100,000 to assist in the area of need.
Putting the neighbor back in the neighborhood: ensley residents were recruited to host 20 yard parties and 23 other community events. Neighbors were invited and heard about the purpose of Renew Birmingham. Over 700 residents attended the various yard events and discussed how to change the culture in the ensley neighborhoods. Renew Birmingham gathered demographic information to use in its charity tracker software.
Housing: assisting members of the community with housing needs, adult ed/ workforce development: giving unemployed and underemployed individuals the skills and assistance they need to have a second chance at succeeding in the workforce. Job oportunities & transportation: assistance in finding jobs and addressing transportation needs that are often a barrier for many individuals to obtain and retain meaningful, rewarding employment.