COOKEVILLE, Tenn. — The Tennessee Housing Development Agency (THDA) has awarded Highlands Residential Services (HRS) a $600,000 grant to help build Redbud Village, a permanent supportive housing development for individuals and families experiencing homelessness.

The grant, announced July 16, is funded through the Tennessee Housing Trust Fund (THTF).

“THDA is proud to support Highlands Residential in this endeavor that will help address the continued need for affordable housing for those who are experiencing homelessness,” THDA Executive Director Ralph Perrey said. “The work that HRS is doing for the Cookeville community is an important step toward creating a better, more affordable future for Tennesseans.”

Redbud Village will feature 20 apartments, including 10 one-bedroom and 10 two-bedroom units. The development is being designed with accessibility in mind, with every unit incorporating handicap-visitability features and 25% of the apartments designated as fully accessible for residents with disabilities.

In addition to permanent housing, Redbud Village will connect residents with supportive services through partnerships with community agencies in the Cookeville area. Highlands Residential Services will also provide on-site property management to help residents access referrals and other community resources.

“Redbud Village is an important part of our ongoing efforts to bring affordable housing to Cookeville and the surrounding area,” HRS Executive Director Chris Cassetty said. “With the help of THDA and the city of Cookeville, we will be able to assist 20 families struggling with homelessness.”

THDA awards Tennessee Housing Trust Fund grants to nonprofit organizations that develop or preserve rental housing for low- and very low-income households, older adults and individuals with special needs. Funding for the grants is generated through revenue from THDA’s Great Choice mortgage program.