A New Hope for Affordable Housing in the Twin Cities
Saint Paul, Minnesota is getting a much-needed affordable housing development, thanks to Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity. The ground has been broken on a new community that will provide safe, decent, and affordable homes for 46 families. The new development, named "The Commons at Penn Avenue," will be located in the Frogtown neighborhood of Saint Paul and will offer a mix of townhomes and single-family homes.
Why Affordable Housing Matters
Affordable housing is a critical need in the Twin Cities area. According to the National Low Income Housing Coalition, the Twin Cities has a shortage of 54,000 affordable and available rental homes for extremely low-income renters. This shortage has led to increased homelessness and housing insecurity, particularly among families with children, people with disabilities, and seniors.
Providing a Hand Up, Not a Handout
Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity is not just giving away homes. They provide a "hand up," not a "handout." Future homeowners are required to contribute 500 hours of sweat equity toward the construction of their home or the homes of other Habitat families. In addition, they must complete financial education and home maintenance classes. The program is designed to empower families to build a better future for themselves and their children.
A Community Effort
The Commons at Penn Avenue is a true community effort. Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity has partnered with the City of Saint Paul, Ramsey County, and other local organizations to make this development a reality. The development will also feature community gardens, a playground, and a community gathering space.
Meet Some of the Future Homeowners
The future homeowners of The Commons at Penn Avenue come from a variety of backgrounds. Some are refugees who have recently arrived in the United States, while others are long-time residents of the Twin Cities who have struggled to find affordable housing. Meet a few of them:
Sarah and her two children recently fled domestic violence and have been living in a shelter. They are excited to have a place to call their own.
Hassan and his family came to the United States as refugees from Somalia. They have been living in a cramped apartment and are looking forward to having a home with enough space for their children to play.
Maria is a single mother who works two jobs to support her family. She has been struggling to find affordable housing that is close to her children's school.
Construction Updates
Construction on The Commons at Penn Avenue is underway, with the first homes expected to be completed by the end of the year. Follow Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity on social media for updates on the construction progress.
How You Can Help
There are many ways you can help support Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity and The Commons at Penn Avenue:
Donate: Your financial contribution can help cover the cost of building materials, land acquisition, and other expenses.
Volunteer: Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity relies on volunteers to help build homes. No construction experience is necessary.
Advocate: Use your voice to advocate for affordable housing in your community. Contact your local elected officials and let them know that affordable housing is a priority for you.
Conclusion
The Commons at Penn Avenue is a shining example of what can be accomplished when a community comes together to address the need for affordable housing. Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity is providing a hand up to 46 families who are working hard to build a better future for themselves and their children. You can help support this effort by donating, volunteering, or advocating for affordable housing in your community.
FAQs
What is Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity?
Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity is a non-profit organization that provides affordable housing opportunities for families in the Twin Cities area.
Who will be living at The Commons at Penn Avenue?
46 families, including refugees, long-time residents, and single mothers, will be living at The Commons at Penn Avenue.
How can I help support Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity?
You can support Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity by donating, volunteering, or advocating for affordable housing in your community.
When will the first homes at The Commons at Penn Avenue be completed?
The first homes at The Commons at Penn Avenue are expected to be completed by the end of the year.
What is the impact of affordable housing on communities?
Affordable housing has been shown to have a positive impact on communities, including reducing homelessness and housing insecurity, improving health outcomes, and increasing economic mobility.
Data Points
The Twin Cities has a shortage of 54,000 affordable and available rental homes for extremely low-income renters.
Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity has served over 1,300 families since its founding in 1985.
The Commons at Penn Avenue is the largest affordable housing development in the history of Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity.
The average cost of a Habitat home is $250,000.
Construction on The Commons at Penn Avenue is expected to create over 150 jobs.
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