Fully Renovated Facility Providing Home and Hope to Veterans
MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. – A beacon of hope shines brightly in Myrtle Beach as the Eastern Carolina Housing Organization (ECHO) has officially completed the renovation of their NardMoor facility. The former nursing home has been completely revitalized to provide sanctuary and recovery assistance for up to 40 homeless veterans at a time.
A Second Chance for Heroes
“It’s awesome… if I had to put it in one word,” Joey Smoak, CEO of the ECHO, described the NardMoor facility. “When you have someone coming from a situation where they can find to sleep or whatever the deal is…it’s a God-given pleasure to be able to provide it.”
The NardMoor facility is an innovative approach to rehabilitate and reintegrate veterans into the community, deviating from the traditional nursing home model and investing in top-of-the-line temporary housing instead. “I’ll be honest with you,” adds Smoak, “I’ve seen all of them, and there’s nothing that’s like this.”
Attention to Detail
The facility brims with thoughtful amenities, including new roofing, flooring, and a full commercial kitchen. Staff at the NardMoor facility provide the residents with three nutritious meals a day and plenty of space for them to relax, socialize, recover, and rebuild their lives.
Such comprehensive care doesn’t go unnoticed. The Veterans Affairs Department now considers the NardMoor facility the gold standard for temporary housing in the region. Smoak proudly shared that the ECHO’s hard work is recognized across the region, “We’re considered their best practice model in Region 7, that’s Alabama, Georgia, and South Carolina… we’re like their flagship or the best practice model.”
Veteran’s Perspective
Army veteran and NardMoor resident, Prezzie Haney, attests to the quality of the facility. “Top of the line,” Haney confirms. Despite his initial struggles with substance abuse, the resources and support provided by the NardMoor staff have been instrumental in his recovery process. He credits the facility for helping him get his life back on track.
A New Chapter
The NardMoor facility isn’t just a place to stay; it’s a refuge providing a different sort of freedom for those who fought hard to protect ours. The work done by the Eastern Carolina Housing Organization and the renovated NardMoor facility isn’t just a repayment for their invaluable service, but a pledge of unwavering support to the nation’s heroes. “These people served our country and to say it’s a gratitude for their service would be an understatement,” Smoak added.
If you or someone you know are a veteran in need of support, or if you are looking to donate or volunteer, further information can be found on the ECHO’s website.
