Annual Race to Build underway at Bristol Motor Speedway
BRISTOL, Tenn. (WJHL) — Appalachia Service Project (ASP) is hosting its eighth annual Race to Build event at Bristol Motor Speedway.
College teams from the Tennessee College of Applied Technology, Kent State University and Iowa State University are competing to build the fastest, safest and most efficient home.
CEO and president of ASP Melisa Winburn said the event means a lot to the organization.
"It means so much to ASP to have this, [it really is] melding everything that we're about," Winburn said. "It's fun, it's volunteerism, it's competition. But really, the bigger picture here is at the end of this, three families will have a nice, warm, safe, dry place to live."
NASCAR at Bristol: How to watch the Bass Pro Shops Night Race
Construction began on Thursday and will conclude at 4 p.m. on Saturday. At the end of the event, ASP will present the homes to the Bristol, Lyons and McCaffrey families.
"Steve Bristol, a Vietnam War veteran with full custody of his 12-year-old grandson, has been struggling with the burden of high rent, which consumes much of his limited income," a release from the ASP said.
Patricia Lyons, who has dedicated her life to raising her granddaughter, faces the weight of expensive rent as well, ASP reports. The new home will serve as a fresh start and a place where Lyons and her granddaughter can make memories.
High rent has also been a strain on the McCaffrey family.
"For Hugh McCaffrey, his wife Lisa, and their son Craig, high rent has been a constant strain, threatening their financial stability," the ASP said in a news release. "This new home will be more than just a roof over their heads; it will be a foundation upon which their family can flourish, allowing them to focus on essential needs."
Winburn said people can apply with the ASP if they need a new home.
"These are mortgage-free homes, gifted to low-income families in the area and the hopes that it will build equity and give them a firm foundation for continuing a successful life," Winburn said.
