Some eastern Kentuckians who lost their homes in last year’s floods will have a new one, thanks to a $10 million ham auctioned off at the Kentucky State Fair Thursday. Former GOP gubernatorial candidate Kelly Craft and her husband Joe bid 5-million and Central Bank another 5. A spokeswoman for the Crafts said a portion of their bid will help pay for new homes at the Chestnut Ridge development in Knott County. Mindy Miller is the director of development and communications for the nonprofit Housing Development Alliance, which will build some of the homes.
“This is actually a big surprise for us to hear this. But at the same time, you know, we've been so lucky with all of the folks who have pitched in to help the folks of Eastern Kentucky so. So I say it's surprising, but in a way, it's not because people have been so generous.”
The Crafts have been supporters of Chestnut Ridge since the 20-plus acres of land was purchased. Miller said the gift is good news for people who can use some.
“There are people in Eastern Kentucky who are living in their cars right now, there are people who are living with family members, who are still living in an insecure housing arrangement. So the more we can help them better, and we're trying to keep their spirits up.”
Miller said construction at Chestnut Ridge could begin as soon as January and could be finished by the end of next year.
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