Work Grant Supports Men’s Homeless Shelter Renovation at Flat Rock Site

Jessica Stevens of the Shepherd’s House and local Lowe’s Store Manager Thomas Nolan discussed renovation efforts in progress at a new homeless shelter location as workers labored to the rear on Thursday. The site, located at 787 E. Pine St. near the granite quarry property, is set to become a men’s homeless shelter in early 2027. The project is being supported by a $50,000 grant from Lowe’s Community Impact Program, which will help transform the former Flat Rock Presbyterian Church into a 24-bed facility.

The Shepherd’s House, which currently operates a homeless facility on Spring Street in Mount Airy, is expanding its capacity through this initiative. Jessica Stevens, project and facility manager for the Shepherd’s House, noted that the new location will also include a food pantry. Alongside Stevens, 16 representatives from the Lowe’s home improvement team, led by local Store Manager Thomas Nolan, were on-site engaging in a two-day renovation effort.

The work includes installing a new HVAC system, repairing and painting walls, and replacing damaged ceiling tiles in the future men’s shelter. The project also involves landscaping and other preparatory tasks. The completed project is expected to allow the agency to increase its service delivery to an estimated 25% more individuals, according to Lowe’s spokesman Brett Baldeck.

This effort is part of a broader initiative by Lowe’s Community Impact Program, which has committed $100 million over five years to revitalizing hometowns. The program supports projects that address local needs, including expanding food pantries, restoring shelters, and improving outdoor spaces. The Shepherd’s House effort was selected from over 5,000 nominations through the Lowe’s Community Bucket List.

The collaboration between the Shepherd’s House and Lowe’s reflects a shared commitment to addressing housing insecurity and supporting vulnerable neighbors. As Proverbs 31:8-9 reminds us, we are called to speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves and to defend the rights of the poor and the needy. This project stands as a practical expression of that call, offering hope and dignity to those in need.

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