Update: Bluffton builder looks to make a big difference to flood victims with tiny homes

A Bluffton construction company is hoping that thinking small will make a big difference in the lives of South Carolina families devastated by recent flooding.

Brighton Builders is breaking ground Thursday afternoon on a project to build a series of tiny homes, which will be donated to families in need.

"It's time to start putting roofs over people's heads," company president Ben Kennedy said earlier this week. "We know there are going to be people who can't salvage their house, and they are going to have to start over."

The homes will be about 260 square feet and will include all essentials of a typical house, Kennedy said.

Despite their diminutive size, the homes can accommodate up to four people, he said.

The company is partnering with community organizations in Manning and Summerton to find recipients for the homes. The homes could be used until they find permanent housing.

After that, "we hope that they will donate it another family in need," he said.

"The goal is to pay it forward."

Brighton Builders is starting with the construction of two homes. The company's goal is to build them within about a month.

The company is raising money to cover material costs. The amount of donations collected will determine the ultimate number of tiny homes built, Kennedy said.

A public groundbreaking ceremony for the first two homes is scheduled for 5 p.m. at 1321 May River Road in Bluffton.

For more information on the project, visit http://www.blufftoncares.com.

Follow reporter Lucas High on Twitter at twitter.com/IPBG_Lucas.

Related content:

• Opportunities to help those affect by flooding continue, Oct. 9, 2015.

This story was originally published October 15, 2015 at 9:22 AM with the headline "Update: Bluffton builder looks to make a big difference to flood victims with tiny homes."