Erica Wilson • Lakeside Apartments, Concord • Family Housing by Resources for Community Development
LIVING IN AFFORDABLE HOUSING has given 38-year-old Erica Wilson and her two teenage sons a new beginning. Before moving to Lakeside Apartments, Erica was on welfare, her sons’ grades and after-school activities were not meeting her expectations, and it seemed that her community was unsteady and deteriorating. When Anita, the manager at Lakeside Apartments, informed Erica about a waitlist opening at the development, Erica decided to apply. Today, Erica is no longer on welfare, her sons are making good grades in school and participating in healthier after-school activities, and she is surrounded by a supportive community. “Kids can be kids here. As parents, we don’t have to worry about our children getting involved in negative things. We support each other.” Living in affordable housing has made Erica want to achieve and strive for more, and as a result her sons have taken on the same positive attitude.
When asked what Erica would tell a person who is just learning about affordable housing, she responds, “Some people have the misconception that affordable housing is not a good place to live, but I have referred a lot of people here. I would tell people to give it a try.” Erica finds the Lakeside Apartments management and maintenance staff to be supportive, responsive, and caring to families. She appreciates that there is an on-site Community Day Care Center. She says that the Lakeside Apartments is not just affordable and safe, it is also a nice place to live.
TAKASHI TANEMORI, a Hiroshima survivor, artist, and advocate for peace and forgiveness, lives with his seeing-eye dog in a studio at Stuart Pratt Manor in Berkeley. Before moving into the Manor in April of 2006, Mr. Tanemori lived in independent housing in Lafayette. His living arrangements were “not nearly as affordable as Stuart Pratt Manor,” and he realized that he needed a more permanent and affordable housing situation. Satellite Housing recommended the development to Mr. Tanemori. Mr. Tanemori truly feels that “Stuart Pratt Manor provides for a roof over the head as well basic human needs like heating and safety, which are essential.”
Mr. Tanemori, the father of three children, feels that his children’s worries about his wellbeing are now generally put to rest. They know that he’s well taken care of and has a safe and consistent environment to call home. Mr. Tanemori describes the staff at Stuart Pratt Manor as “very human and warm-hearted,” which has helped to ease his children’s fears.
Mr. Tanemori admits that he used to think negatively about living in affordable housing, and he believes that there is still a common stigma about affordable housing, but living in Stuart Pratt Manor has changed his outlook. “I have an increased gratitude for what organizations like Satellite Housing have provided for people in need.”
NOT LONG AGO, Mr. Jimenez lived in a two-bedroom apartment in Livermore with his wife and two children. It was a challenge containing the noise level in their apartment with two energetic children under the age of ten. Moving into affordable housing has allowed Mr. Jimenez to worry less about disturbing his neighbors. Now he can allow his children to play in the house and listen to music, in addition to enjoying their own backyard. “My children are more content. Things are calmer and happier. There is far less stress these days.”
Mr. Jimenez is relieved that his new neighborhood is much safer for his children, unlike the apartment complex where they used to live, which allowed anyone to enter the premises. Mr. Jimenez worries less about paying rent now, and he can finally put some money into his family’s savings. Although his children are finishing the school year in Livermore before transferring, Mr. Jimenez is pleased to hear good things about the new school. It makes him happy to know his family is happy. “It’s what my wife and children have always wanted.”
Mr. Jimenez heard about affordable housing opportunities through his children’s school. He applied through Habitat for Humanity, and he recommends that those in need not think twice about applying to the program. “Even with the paperwork involved, it is well worth it. It has meant a lot to me and my family.”
AT 20 YEARS OLD, Zairon Frazier has found new freedom living in his apartment at Mission Bell Apartments. Zairon lived in foster care for several years, and after leaving it, he shared a two-bedroom apartment with a roommate. As a working college student, Zairon did not imagine it would be possible to live in an apartment of his own, but Project Independence turned things around. “Project Independence called and told me about an opening at Mission Bell. They asked if I wanted to take advantage of the situation. It was a quick move-in after that.”
Affordable housing has impacted Zairon’s life in a variety of ways. It is now possible for him to live on his own while attending college. It has also provided him with shelter that is “nice, affordable, within budget and in a good neighborhood, and it has easy access to BART, banks, and grocery stores.” He can now have privacy or company whenever he pleases. It’s a freedom he has never known.
When asked what affordable housing has meant to him, Zairon replies, “It is an opportunity for you to be able to do things you may not be able to do with expensive rent bills and other financial necessities. It has meant my independence and my chance for an education.”
CHERYL SMITH REFERS TO HERSELF as “differently-abled.” However, it is not the “difference in ability” that is most noticeable about Cheryl, a woman who exudes hope, kindness, and a passion for her community that is obvious from miles away. Working through the Youth Leadership Council, Cheryl, also commonly known as “Auntie” or “Mom,” has become a well-known and respected figure at Eden House Apartments (and the surrounding community), where she has both found and helped create an extended family in the development. “Everyone watches out for everyone,” Cheryl says of Eden House. “We are all closely knit.”
Three years ago, Cheryl lived with her daughters in a 650-square-foot, two-bedroom apartment. She applied to affordable housing after hearing about a waitlist opening at Eden House Apartments the first apartment that became available was on the second floor, but Cheryl and her family were soon offered an apartment that would accommodate them on the first floor. “From the minute I put the key in the door, I felt like I was home. Since then the blessings have been rolling in.” Cheryl now lives in a three-bedroom apartment that is much more affordable -and roomier -than her old place. “We used to have such a small kitchen without much room to move around, but now I can spin circles around the kitchen.” Living in affordable housing has alleviated many of Cheryl’s stresses. She can now sleep through the night, knowing that she can pay her rent and bills, that she can put some money away into her savings, and that she can afford to give her children more than she used to. “My stress level has lowered quite a bit. My worries come far and fewer in between.”
YUJUAN CHEN IS A MOTHER, wife, and daughter all rolled into one. Four years ago Yujuan was living in a small studio in Canton, China with her family. In August of 2003, Yujuan moved with her family to California to be closer to their relatives as well as to find a better life for her children. She found an opportunity in Oakland, where she moved into a three bedroom family housing unit at the Frank G. Mar apartments with her husband, three daughters, and mother. “Living here has finally given my family some long-awaited space and freedom. It is a place where my children can grow, and where we can have some sense of privacy.”
Mrs. Chen enjoys living at Frank G. Mar, where she feels that her family is safe. Aside from the comfortable living situation, she appreciates living near friendly neighbors and being close to relatives who reside nearby in Chinatown. “It is a nice place that allows us to be close to our loved ones while also being in a home that is secure and affordable.” A few months ago, when her daughter was hospitalized for a serious medical condition, she found herself surrounded by her supportive family. Medical bills continue to be a challenge, but thankfully affordable housing has made the burden less heavy.
NAPOLEON SIMON BELIEVES THAT FAMILY COMES FIRST, and he has made many sacrifices in his life to provide a good home and a great education for his son Kevin. After a divorce and bankruptcy, he assumed full child custody. This required leaving a great sales job so he could remain close to home, and taking double shifts at a delivery job to keep his family afloat.
According to Napoleon, “Most places that are affordable are undesirable, with high crime and bad schools.” By moving to The Oaks, he was able to provide his son with a safe neighborhood and a great education at nearby De La Salle High School. Kevin Simon became a top football player and his team was undefeated during all four years of his high school career. He made his dad very proud by completing a degree in psychology along with playing football at the University of Tennessee. Most recently, Kevin was drafted by the Washington Redskins football team.
Napoleon is now 65 years old and thinking about retirement. He is considering moving out of the area to a place with a lower cost of living. Even with affordable housing, he cannot afford retirement in California. “Someone has to get a handle on the spiraling housing costs. More organizations beyond EAH need to get involved. People like me are being forced out of the area,” says Napoleon.
LONG-TIME FRIENDS DONALD DIMENCO AND MARSHA SMITH did not find it difficult to agree to share a two-bedroom apartment when the opportunity arose. In November of 2006, before moving into Lincoln Oaks Apartments, Marsha lived in a house with six other people, while Donald shared a one-bedroom unit with a roommate. At Lincoln Oaks Apartments, Donald and Marsha each have a room of their own.
When asked how affordable housing has changed her life, Marsha says, “At Lincoln Oaks it is affordable. I have a pretty room, privacy, and peace and quiet.” Donald nods his head in agreement. In his old apartment Donald did not have a closet space, and he often misplaced his clothing. Both Donald and Marsha enjoy the security of Lincoln Oaks as well. The apartment building has a security entrance that ensures that only residents or their guests are permitted to enter. “It is safe here. The front door is always locked,” Donald remarks. This security measure not only makes Donald and Marsha feel safe, but also brings peace to Marsha’s younger brother, who regularly calls and visits.
Both Marsha and Donald have utilized the free computer access at the apartment, allowing them to progress with their computer skills. “I get to practice on the computers here. There are never problems, I have my own space, and I can be more independent!”
LIVING IN AFFORDABLE HOUSING has given 38-year-old Erica Wilson and her two teenage sons a new beginning. Before moving to Lakeside Apartments, Erica was on welfare, her sons’ grades and after-school activities were not meeting her expectations, and it seemed that her community was unsteady and deteriorating. When Anita, the manager at Lakeside Apartments, informed Erica about a waitlist opening at the development, Erica decided to apply. Today, Erica is no longer on welfare, her sons are making good grades in school and participating in healthier after-school activities, and she is surrounded by a supportive community. “Kids can be kids here. As parents, we don’t have to worry about our children getting involved in negative things. We support each other.” Living in affordable housing has made Erica want to achieve and strive for more, and as a result her sons have taken on the same positive attitude.When asked what Erica would tell a person who is just learning about affordable housing, she responds, “Some people have the misconception that affordable housing is not a good place to live, but I have referred a lot of people here. I would tell people to give it a try.” Erica finds the Lakeside Apartments management and maintenance staff to be supportive, responsive, and caring to families. She appreciates that there is an on-site Community Day Care Center. She says that the Lakeside Apartments is not just affordable and safe, it is also a nice place to live.
Takashi Tanemori • Stuart Pratt Manor, Berkeley • Senior Housing by Satellite Housing
TAKASHI TANEMORI, a Hiroshima survivor, artist, and advocate for peace and forgiveness, lives with his seeing-eye dog in a studio at Stuart Pratt Manor in Berkeley. Before moving into the Manor in April of 2006, Mr. Tanemori lived in independent housing in Lafayette. His living arrangements were “not nearly as affordable as Stuart Pratt Manor,” and he realized that he needed a more permanent and affordable housing situation. Satellite Housing recommended the development to Mr. Tanemori. Mr. Tanemori truly feels that “Stuart Pratt Manor provides for a roof over the head as well basic human needs like heating and safety, which are essential.”Mr. Tanemori, the father of three children, feels that his children’s worries about his wellbeing are now generally put to rest. They know that he’s well taken care of and has a safe and consistent environment to call home. Mr. Tanemori describes the staff at Stuart Pratt Manor as “very human and warm-hearted,” which has helped to ease his children’s fears.
Mr. Tanemori admits that he used to think negatively about living in affordable housing, and he believes that there is still a common stigma about affordable housing, but living in Stuart Pratt Manor has changed his outlook. “I have an increased gratitude for what organizations like Satellite Housing have provided for people in need.”
Antonio Jimenez • Livermore Family Housing by Habitat for Humanity, East Bay
NOT LONG AGO, Mr. Jimenez lived in a two-bedroom apartment in Livermore with his wife and two children. It was a challenge containing the noise level in their apartment with two energetic children under the age of ten. Moving into affordable housing has allowed Mr. Jimenez to worry less about disturbing his neighbors. Now he can allow his children to play in the house and listen to music, in addition to enjoying their own backyard. “My children are more content. Things are calmer and happier. There is far less stress these days.”Mr. Jimenez is relieved that his new neighborhood is much safer for his children, unlike the apartment complex where they used to live, which allowed anyone to enter the premises. Mr. Jimenez worries less about paying rent now, and he can finally put some money into his family’s savings. Although his children are finishing the school year in Livermore before transferring, Mr. Jimenez is pleased to hear good things about the new school. It makes him happy to know his family is happy. “It’s what my wife and children have always wanted.”
Mr. Jimenez heard about affordable housing opportunities through his children’s school. He applied through Habitat for Humanity, and he recommends that those in need not think twice about applying to the program. “Even with the paperwork involved, it is well worth it. It has meant a lot to me and my family.”
Zairon Frazier • Mission Bell Apartments, San Leandro Supportive Housing by Tri-City Homeless Coalition
AT 20 YEARS OLD, Zairon Frazier has found new freedom living in his apartment at Mission Bell Apartments. Zairon lived in foster care for several years, and after leaving it, he shared a two-bedroom apartment with a roommate. As a working college student, Zairon did not imagine it would be possible to live in an apartment of his own, but Project Independence turned things around. “Project Independence called and told me about an opening at Mission Bell. They asked if I wanted to take advantage of the situation. It was a quick move-in after that.”Affordable housing has impacted Zairon’s life in a variety of ways. It is now possible for him to live on his own while attending college. It has also provided him with shelter that is “nice, affordable, within budget and in a good neighborhood, and it has easy access to BART, banks, and grocery stores.” He can now have privacy or company whenever he pleases. It’s a freedom he has never known.
When asked what affordable housing has meant to him, Zairon replies, “It is an opportunity for you to be able to do things you may not be able to do with expensive rent bills and other financial necessities. It has meant my independence and my chance for an education.”
Cheryl Smith • Eden House Apartments, San Leandro Family Housing by Eden Housing
CHERYL SMITH REFERS TO HERSELF as “differently-abled.” However, it is not the “difference in ability” that is most noticeable about Cheryl, a woman who exudes hope, kindness, and a passion for her community that is obvious from miles away. Working through the Youth Leadership Council, Cheryl, also commonly known as “Auntie” or “Mom,” has become a well-known and respected figure at Eden House Apartments (and the surrounding community), where she has both found and helped create an extended family in the development. “Everyone watches out for everyone,” Cheryl says of Eden House. “We are all closely knit.”Three years ago, Cheryl lived with her daughters in a 650-square-foot, two-bedroom apartment. She applied to affordable housing after hearing about a waitlist opening at Eden House Apartments the first apartment that became available was on the second floor, but Cheryl and her family were soon offered an apartment that would accommodate them on the first floor. “From the minute I put the key in the door, I felt like I was home. Since then the blessings have been rolling in.” Cheryl now lives in a three-bedroom apartment that is much more affordable -and roomier -than her old place. “We used to have such a small kitchen without much room to move around, but now I can spin circles around the kitchen.” Living in affordable housing has alleviated many of Cheryl’s stresses. She can now sleep through the night, knowing that she can pay her rent and bills, that she can put some money away into her savings, and that she can afford to give her children more than she used to. “My stress level has lowered quite a bit. My worries come far and fewer in between.”
Yujuan Chen • Frank G. Mar Apartments, Oakland Family Housing by East Bay Asian Local Development Corporation
YUJUAN CHEN IS A MOTHER, wife, and daughter all rolled into one. Four years ago Yujuan was living in a small studio in Canton, China with her family. In August of 2003, Yujuan moved with her family to California to be closer to their relatives as well as to find a better life for her children. She found an opportunity in Oakland, where she moved into a three bedroom family housing unit at the Frank G. Mar apartments with her husband, three daughters, and mother. “Living here has finally given my family some long-awaited space and freedom. It is a place where my children can grow, and where we can have some sense of privacy.”Mrs. Chen enjoys living at Frank G. Mar, where she feels that her family is safe. Aside from the comfortable living situation, she appreciates living near friendly neighbors and being close to relatives who reside nearby in Chinatown. “It is a nice place that allows us to be close to our loved ones while also being in a home that is secure and affordable.” A few months ago, when her daughter was hospitalized for a serious medical condition, she found herself surrounded by her supportive family. Medical bills continue to be a challenge, but thankfully affordable housing has made the burden less heavy.
Napoleon Simon • The Oaks Apartments, Walnut Creek Family Housing by EAH Housing
NAPOLEON SIMON BELIEVES THAT FAMILY COMES FIRST, and he has made many sacrifices in his life to provide a good home and a great education for his son Kevin. After a divorce and bankruptcy, he assumed full child custody. This required leaving a great sales job so he could remain close to home, and taking double shifts at a delivery job to keep his family afloat.According to Napoleon, “Most places that are affordable are undesirable, with high crime and bad schools.” By moving to The Oaks, he was able to provide his son with a safe neighborhood and a great education at nearby De La Salle High School. Kevin Simon became a top football player and his team was undefeated during all four years of his high school career. He made his dad very proud by completing a degree in psychology along with playing football at the University of Tennessee. Most recently, Kevin was drafted by the Washington Redskins football team.
Napoleon is now 65 years old and thinking about retirement. He is considering moving out of the area to a place with a lower cost of living. Even with affordable housing, he cannot afford retirement in California. “Someone has to get a handle on the spiraling housing costs. More organizations beyond EAH need to get involved. People like me are being forced out of the area,” says Napoleon.
Donald Dimenco & Marsha Smith Lincoln Oaks Apartments, Fremont Housing Consortium of the East Bay, Housing for Developmentally Disabled Individuals
LONG-TIME FRIENDS DONALD DIMENCO AND MARSHA SMITH did not find it difficult to agree to share a two-bedroom apartment when the opportunity arose. In November of 2006, before moving into Lincoln Oaks Apartments, Marsha lived in a house with six other people, while Donald shared a one-bedroom unit with a roommate. At Lincoln Oaks Apartments, Donald and Marsha each have a room of their own.When asked how affordable housing has changed her life, Marsha says, “At Lincoln Oaks it is affordable. I have a pretty room, privacy, and peace and quiet.” Donald nods his head in agreement. In his old apartment Donald did not have a closet space, and he often misplaced his clothing. Both Donald and Marsha enjoy the security of Lincoln Oaks as well. The apartment building has a security entrance that ensures that only residents or their guests are permitted to enter. “It is safe here. The front door is always locked,” Donald remarks. This security measure not only makes Donald and Marsha feel safe, but also brings peace to Marsha’s younger brother, who regularly calls and visits.
Both Marsha and Donald have utilized the free computer access at the apartment, allowing them to progress with their computer skills. “I get to practice on the computers here. There are never problems, I have my own space, and I can be more independent!”