DOUGLAS, Ga. (WALB) - What once began with loss and uncertainty is now becoming a new beginning for families in Coffee County.

Community members gathered Tuesday morning on March 17 for the Sims Park Dedication and Celebration, marking the completion of nine new homes built for families displaced by Hurricane Helene.

The development, located on Dream Makers Way in Douglas, is part of a larger effort led by The Hope Initiative, Hope for Coffee, and the City of Douglas to help those who lost their homes or were forced to start over after the storm.

City leaders say the project is not just about housing, but about restoring stability and hope.

“By joining together, we have fostered healing and hope in the Douglas and Coffee County area following the challenges brought by Hurricane Helene,” said Mayor Tony Paulk. “Let’s celebrate resilience and progress as we pave the way for a brighter future together.”

The dedication also carries a deeper meaning.

City officials say the event honors not only the families moving into new homes, but also pays tribute to Lee Sims, who lost his life while helping others during hurricane recovery efforts.

Hope for Coffee organizer Devis Burnam says the moment represents more than construction.

“What started as heartbreak, prayers, hard conversations, long days, and a whole lot of faith has led us here,” Burnam said. “What stands before us now is not just the completion of a project, it is a testimony.”

Burnam says that testimony reflects what can happen when a community comes together with purpose.

“A testimony of hope, healing, unity, and what can happen when a community comes together with love,” he said.

Organizers say the homes are designed to give families a fresh start after months of displacement and uncertainty.

For many, Tuesday, March 17, was not just about a dedication.

It was about finally having a place to call home again.

Watch more with WALB’s What’s Going On?

Have a news tip or see an error that needs correction? Let us know. Please include the article’s headline in your message.

To stay up to date on all the latest news as it develops, follow WALB on Facebook and X (Twitter). For more South Georgia news, download the WALB News app from the Apple Store or Google Play.

Copyright 2026 WALB. All rights reserved.