At a recent Henry County Board of Supervisors meeting, Pastor Trey Hager of First Presbyterian Church unveiled an ambitious initiative to combat the critical lack of care options for individuals with special needs and seniors. His plan focuses on transforming the recently acquired Christamore House into a multi-service care facility and developing adjacent county-owned land into mixed-market housing.
Citing personal experience as the father of a son with complex disabilities, Hager emphasized the financial strain on families — noting that 24/7 non-medical home care can cost up to $295,000 annually, far beyond what public aid provides. With four group homes recently closed in the county, the need for local solutions has become urgent.
The Christamore House project would offer therapy services, secure childcare areas, a commercial kitchen, and community spaces for senior meals and socialization. The broader proposal also includes a request for approximately seven acres of nearby land to construct up to 14 dwellings. These would accommodate group homes for individuals with disabilities and senior housing, all managed by a nonprofit foundation to ensure long-term stability and appropriate services.
Hager framed the project as a community-centered model that leverages private initiative and public cooperation to fill a growing care gap. County supervisors responded with interest, noting the legal and procedural steps that would be needed — including a possible public hearing — before any land transfer could occur.
If approved, renovations to the Christamore House could be completed by fall, aligning with the new school year. The housing component would move forward pending zoning, funding, and construction approvals.
“This is about creating lasting solutions for some of our most vulnerable neighbors,” said Hager, calling on the community to support a unified, sustainable approach to care and housing.
The Board will continue reviewing the proposal and soliciting community input in the weeks ahead.
