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Hope Avenue Homes

Over five years ago, South Bend Heritage, the City of South Bend, local health systems, and homeless service providers began researching the development of Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) as a critical method to break the cycle of homelessness. 

This cycle of homelessness is tragic, creates an unfavorable community environment, and is expensive to maintain. By focusing on PSH/housing first for the chronically homeless population and providing direct social service support, persons experiencing homelessness will have housing stability and a suitable location from which to begin strengthening their lives. After extensive research and public discussion, and in response to increasing homelessness over the last decade, SBH and other public and private housing providers have been utilizing PSH to rapidly house people experiencing homelessness. 

With the recommendations contained in the City’s Homelessness Working Group Report and the objectives noted in the St. Joseph Housing Consortium Housing & Community Development Plan serving as a guide:
1. The community is continuing to take long-called for action to expand housing options for everyone, especially those with a disability.
2. The community is delivering on its housing plans as a shared public concern and critical way to improve a wide range of health outcomes.
3. The community is increasing the supply of supportive apartment homes that create healthier outcomes for individuals choosing to improve their lives.
4. The community is following fair housing law and ensuring that all people, regardless of income, race, ethnicity, or disability, have access to decent, safe, sanitary, and affordable housing without discrimination.

For more information about Permanent Supportive Housing practices, click here. 

For more information about Oliver Apartments, click here.

"We look forward to providing pathways to progress for our homeless neighbors as we’ve seen how lives can shift to productive community members when provided with supportive housing and services."
Cindy Schulz, LCSW, LCAC
Director, Adult Case Management, Oaklawn

Project Details

  • 19,000 Sq. Feet – 2 levels
  • 22 units
  • On-site management and supportive services offices
  • Community Room
  • Kitchen
  • Parking Lot & Dumpster area
  • Outdoor Pavilion & Landscaping, Fencing
  • Outdoor safety lighting
  • Indoor & outdoor safety cameras
  • Laundry Room

Timeline

  • 2020 Fall/Winter: Finalize architectural design, finalize funding, construction bidding opens, final approval from IHCDA
  • 2021 Spring: Construction Starts
  • 2022 Spring: Opening

Funding

  • IHCDA Housing Trust Fund: $500,000
  • IHCDA Development Fund: $500,00
  • IHCDA HOME Grant: $1,200,000
  • SJC Housing Consortium HOME: $1,710,827
  • Total: $3,910,827

General Operations

  • Residents will be selected from a prioritized list of people experiencing homelessness that are pursing housing. Residents have leases and some pay a small portion of rent, in combination with state housing vouchers. 
  • Residents will be evicted for breaking rules, and assisted with pursuing shelter and/or acceptance into other housing. The Property Manager and Support Services Team is focused on eviction prevention efforts to keep residents housed. 
  • No roommates or overnight guests permitted, with some exceptions (medical need, family, parent visit). Residents are required to submit guest form for approval by the management team.   
  • Doors to the building are locked at all times. Residents have fob key access.
  • Building security includes off-duty SBPD officers and front desk Building Monitor.
  • Illegal behavior is subject to immediate eviction. 
  • Property Management staff make monthly apartment inspections and regular visits.
  • Oaklawn Case Managers will conduct regular resident engagement meetings, and an on-site Recovery Coach will engage with residents on a daily basis. Participation in supportive services is voluntary but strongly encouraged.
  • Individuals determined to have a history of violence or sex offenses will not be eligible to live in the apartments.

SUPPORTING
PARTNERS