To Show Appreciation, Jonathan Davenport Invests $7.5 Million to Transform House Into Shelter for Homeless People in…
Atlanta, GA – In a powerful act of generosity and community impact, entrepreneur and philanthropist Jonathan Davenport has announced a $7.5 million investment to convert a historic mansion in downtown Atlanta into a state-of-the-art shelter for homeless individuals. The initiative, titled “Haven House,” reflects Davenport’s personal commitment to giving back to a city that he credits with shaping his success.
Davenport, a tech investor and real estate developer, said the decision was deeply personal. “Atlanta gave me my start,” he said at a press conference announcing the project. “The opportunities I found here—and the people who believed in me when I had nothing—are the reason I’ve made it to where I am. This shelter is my way of saying thank you and paying that kindness forward.”
The renovated shelter will feature 50 private rooms, healthcare and mental health services, job training programs, and community spaces for support groups and recovery meetings. Unlike traditional shelters, Haven House is designed to offer long-term transitional support for individuals and families, helping them not only find safety but rebuild their lives with dignity.
The project has already garnered widespread praise from city officials and community organizations. Mayor Andre Dickens applauded Davenport’s investment as “a bold and compassionate step toward addressing homelessness in our city.” He added, “It’s not just the size of the donation that matters—it’s the thoughtfulness behind it. Mr. Davenport is building more than just a shelter; he’s helping restore hope.”
The mansion, which sits on a 2-acre property in the Old Fourth Ward neighborhood, once belonged to a wealthy industrialist and had been sitting vacant for nearly a decade. Davenport’s team of architects and social service experts have spent the past year designing the renovation to preserve its historic charm while outfitting it with modern amenities. Construction is already underway, with an expected completion date in early 2026.
What sets Haven House apart is its holistic approach. Residents will have access to vocational training partnerships with local businesses, mental health counseling, substance abuse recovery programs, and financial literacy classes. A culinary training kitchen and urban garden are also planned to provide both job skills and healthy meals.
Davenport emphasized that he doesn’t want this to be a one-time effort. “This is just the beginning,” he said. “We’re already working with community leaders to replicate this model in other cities if it proves successful.”
Local nonprofit leaders have expressed enthusiasm about the collaborative spirit of the project. “What Jonathan is doing isn’t just generous—it’s visionary,” said Lisa Cartwright, director of HomeFirst Atlanta. “He’s created a blueprint for how private citizens can partner with local government and nonprofits to address homelessness in a lasting, meaningful way.”
In a world where housing insecurity continues to rise, Jonathan Davenport’s investment serves as a reminder that individual action can spark significant change. With Haven House, he’s not just transforming a building—he’s transforming lives.