Inspiration Behind CMIH

The inspiration for CMIH started with one man; Jerry Bright, who was helping his friend, Tommy.  While it was understood that there were state and federal programs to assist people repair their homes, Tommy did not qualify.  So, Jerry decided to get the materials needed to repair Tommy's home (see picture slides).  

After the completion of Tommy's home, a group of people began to pray about starting an organization that could help homeowners.  Jerry states, "We need something for the homeowner's that fall through the cracks.  The families that don't have the resources to help with the upkeep for their own home.  There is help for people that are 65 and older, for those that are on disability, but there is little to no help for those that fall in-between.  There are a lot of people that are on limited income that can't get any kind of help.  There are a lot of people who have jobs, and children, but their income doesn't allow for home repair.  We need to be bringing the community together one home at a time."

In April of 2014, CMIH was originally organized as a non-profit limited liability company (LLC) and operated under the umbrella of the Community Foundation of Independence.  A board was formed, a mission statement and by-laws were written, and homes, shelters, and community centers started to get worked on.  Hundreds of volunteers, material donations, cash donations: with other organizations and churches coming together to help bring hope to the town of Independence.  This was Jerry's dream, this is what he wanted to see happen.  The community of Independence coming together and helping each other.

Because of its success and growth, the board of CMIH, in 2016, decided to apply for a 501c3 status.  This required the incorporation of the organization and a new name, Community Mission for Improved Housing, Inc.  They continue to help the poor, the disabled, the elderly, and our veterans.  

If you want to volunteer, provide a cash or material donation, or if you want to apply for assistance, please use the links, at the top or bottom of each page, for more information.