Written by: Emma Rodriguez
The Collegedale Spanish-American SDA Church, frequently referred to as SuCasa, launched construction of a new church building in October 2020. According to Richard Mendoza, director of fundraising for the church, the project has been delayed due to supply chain disruptions and a tightening of the labor market caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Nevertheless, he is confident the church building will be completed by the end of December.
“We have been blessed by God, and we are very close to the completion of the construction project,” said Mendoza in an interview with the Accent.
In addition to challenges posed by the pandemic, the church has also faced increased material costs due to recent inflation. As a result, the church is now seeking an additional $3 million to complete the project free of debt.
“Historic inflation, increased material costs and a tight local labor market has taken its toll on the construction costs,” Mendoza said. “These cost escalations have affected almost all construction projects in the area to varying degrees.”
The project’s builder estimates that the church could begin using the building by the end of December, Mendoza added.
“But [the move-in date] is subject to adjustments due to material and labor availability along with the effects of weather on a construction project,” Mendoza said.
SuCasa is continuing to fundraise and is asking for the support of the community in completing the building project.
“We continue to fundraise, pray and trust in God’s plan,” Mendoza told the Accent.
For more information on the SuCasa project, visit the church’s website at: https://sucasachurchproject.org.
