More than 250 supporters came together to support The Community House at the nonprofit’s first annual Farm-to-Table Dinner/Fundraiser on September 16, 2025 at the Burnett Family Farm.
Executive Director Rachelle Kerr reports that the event exceeded all expectations. “It was the first major fundraiser for The Community House, AND the first such large-scale farm-to-table event for The Burnett Family Farm.” All tickets were sold, with 250 seats filled. “It is truly inspiring to see how the community supported our organization’s vision for a path to restoration for the county’s unsheltered population.”
Kerr credits the support of:
- 17 amazing sponsors, nine of whom were platinum-level
- 14 producers, local growers and producers, half of whom FULLY DONATED their goods
- Hundreds of individuals and dozens of organizations that came alongside the organization.
The $23,000 raised at the event has been set aside for a physical location for The Community House. To raise additional funds, The Community House is seeking supporters who are willing to make monthly donations. These tax-deductible donations will help budget for necessary staff and facility needs, demonstrating the community support required to receive matching grants. Anyone can make a one-time or reoccurring secure online donation at: https://www.thecommunityhousetn.org/donate/
The Community House is a non-profit founded to serve and assist the Fentress County’s underserved and residents-in-need. Fentress County has no homeless shelter, yet there are an estimated 50 individuals living without a fixed address within the city limits alone. Hundreds more are facing eviction, while many others live in their vehicles, sheds, and RVs, often without access to electricity or running water.
The Mission of The Community House is to reach, love, serve, and empower individuals in need by breaking the cycle of poverty and helping those who are at risk of or experiencing homelessness. The organization is raising funds to establish a facility in a farm-like setting, offering a peaceful, restorative, supportive environment. Eligible individuals may live there while working to reclaim their lives and independence. Until a physical location is established, The Community House is making an impact on the community by partnering with other local, like-minded organizations — both public and private — to fill gaps in critical services and support. The Community House is currently staffed entirely by volunteers and funded solely by donations from the community.
Once enough funds are raised, the Community House will seek a location just outside the Jamestown city limits, with sufficient acreage to install tiny homes and apartments, and a central support facility where guests can enjoy meals and access support services.
