Crowdfunding Self-Storage Project Launched in TN to Benefit Victims of Domestic Violence

Blaine Mcclister has launched a campaign on the Indiegogo crowdfunding website to generate funds for the purchase of a self-storage facility in Gallatin, Tenn., that will also benefit victims of domestic violence. The “Helping Hand Storage” campaign opened earlier this month and seeks to raise $200,000 by Feb. 3. To date, no capital has been raised. Mcclister will receive any funds generated even if the goal isn’t reached, according to the website.

Mcclister’s appeal states, “Too many times we see and hear that these victims, when they finally are able to get out of the situation, lose everything because they are going to a shelter and have no place to keep it. They leave with just the clothes on their backs and a suitcase. This makes it even harder to start over as now they not only have to save money for a place to live but also re-buy everything they need. They leave [kid’s] toys and bedding behind because they simply cannot take it to a shelter with them because there is no room.”

The storage investor will dedicate at least 20 percent of facility’s units to domestic-violence victims to use free of charge for a minimum of three months and as long as they need the space. Mcclister will coordinate with local shelters and the police department to inform potential tenants about the facility’s offer. He also writes that he’s thought about this project for about a year and has spoken to many others about it.

Mcclister is open to partnering with investors who would like to own a percentage of the business. He’s willing to work with up to four partners, with each receiving 20 percent of the profit. The investors would also have input on the business and receive a free unit.

Those who donate at least $1,000 will receive a sign with their name placed near a unit as a thank you for their contribution. Businesses that donate at least $5,000 will receive recognition on the facility’s front signage.

Mcclister is a single father of four who’s also living on disability, according to the appeal.