Appalachia Service Project Disaster Recovery & Rebuild Program
Who is ASP? Appalachia Service Project (ASP) is a Christian ministry based in Johnson City, Tennessee. Since 1969, ASP has made homes warmer, safer, and drier for Appalachian families in need, using volunteers to help build and repair homes. The organization aims to serve as many families as possible, as quickly as possible.
What services are available? Home repair and home replacement for families whose primary residences were severely damaged or destroyed by Hurricane Helene.
Who is eligible? Most families ASP serves earn less than 80% of the area median income (AMI). ASP can build replacement homes most quickly for families who owned their home and property at the time of Hurricane Helene. Others will also be served, but it will take longer because ASP will have to secure suitable property for the replacement homes.
Area Median Income (AMI) is based on the size of your family and county of residence. You can access AMI information at ASPhome.org/AMI.
How do I apply? Submit an application online at https://asp.servicenetwork.com/aspire/homerepair/ or call (423) 854-8800 to have an application mailed to you.
For most projects, you will be asked to provide additional documentation for all household members 18 years old or older, including but not limited to:
- Copy of photo IDs
- Income verification for all sources of income
- Verification of any ‘Disaster Recovery Funding’ (FEMA, SBA loan, insurance, etc.)
- Proof of veteran status (if applicable)
- Proof of ownership during the disaster (if applicable)
- Utility bill (proving you lived there during the disaster)
- Homeowners insurance policy (if applicable)
What does it cost? Qualified applicants are not required to contribute financially or physically toward the construction of the home. However, individual contributions (such as FEMA or insurance settlements) allow ASP to stretch its resources and serve more families.
For new homes, ASP files a 5-year, forgivable lien on the property that prohibits the sale, renting, or foreclosure of the home. This protects both the homeowner and the investments of ASP’s funders. Some funding sources may require similar, forgivable liens.
What kind of house will I get? ASP uses volunteers and subcontractors to build modest, energy-efficient homes. The typical home floorplan is 864 square feet—2 or 3 bedrooms and 1 bathroom—but may be adjusted depending on family size and other needs or circumstances.
All families impacted by Hurricane Helene are encouraged to apply for FEMA, Small Business Administration (SBA), and other disaster recovery assistance.
Appalachia Service Project 4523 Bristol Highway | Johnson City, TN 37601 ASPhome.org/