MACON, Ga. — Blighted properties are common across Macon, but one man is trying to bring some homes back to life near Mercer University's campus.
Marques Braddy started 'The Bear Necessities,' a program that offers affordable housing to college students by using blighted homes in the area.
"I just feel as though a lot of people can step up and take initiative to revitalize a lot of the distressed areas in the city," Braddy said.
Braddy says the streets of Macon were a lot safer when he was growing up.
"Back in my days, we were fighting, nowadays they're shooting," he said.
He wants to change the community, by focusing on 'The Bear Necessities.'
"Our goal is to provide affordable housing for Mercer students, primarily Mercer students, but not just limiting ourselves to Mercer students," Braddy said.
You can choose to live in the Grizzly Bear, Orange Gummy Bear, or Gray Gummy Bear along Duncan Avenue.
"We have about seven properties on this street, we have partnered with another non-profit organization who has purchased property on this street as well," Braddy said.
He says the rooms will rent for $400 to $900 a month. Each tenant will have their own bedroom, washer and dryer, and living room space.
"Like I said, I think this is something the community needs," Braddy said.
He hopes this project not only helps individuals, but restores life to this once lively community.
"We're trying to change that whole stigma about how the area is or how the area was and all that stuff," Braddy said.
Applications will be opening later this month for any students or community members who want to live at The Bear Necessities.
Braddy has invested more than $80,000 into projects in Bibb County and is working on solutions to keep teens in the classroom and off the streets.
"Enlighten the youth on other ways to generate revenue, educating them on being a entrepreneur, and pushing the fact of business ownership," Braddy said.
He plans to open a space for young entrepreneurs and teens to launch their businesses.
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