Greensboro Reporter

David Merratt knows what it’s like to be down on his luck.

He was once homeless, but after finding help at the Tiny House Community Development, he has become a volunteer so he can pay it forward to help others.

"I build garden boxes chicken coops all of that stuff right here,” Merratt told WFMY, referring to his current endeavors. “This place has helped me get glasses and dentures.” 

Merratt understands the challenges of getting out of a bad situation. That’s why he’s giving back to the Greensboro community. 

Before becoming a volunteer, Merratt had been homeless for 12 years. It was a Spartan existence, as he had only a blanket to keep warm during the cold months, and the only way he got to places was by foot. One day, while he was out trying to find his next meal, he met Scott Jones, executive director of Tiny House Community Development Inc. The organization helps reduce homelessness by erecting tiny homes that people in need can call home.

Jones recognized that Merratt needed help and he got him into a tiny home. 

"He is our longest resident in our program and he's doing extremely well he has learned new life skills,” Jones told WFMY. “He's just improved overall over the past four years." 

The tiny house community has 16 houses today, and they hope to have 25 by next year. 

Jones described his mission as a rewarding experience.

”It's what keeps us going it’s what keeps us energized and focused on increasing the number of affordable housing options,” he said. 

Merratt wants others who are homeless to get the same opportunities, and he’s drumming up donations that are a vital cog in the machine. Just this week, Home Depot awarded the organization $15,000, which will help the community build another home.