RivCo funds Project Legacy transitional housing project for LGBTQ youth and other groups

The Riverside County Board of Supervisors this week allocated $2 million to TruEvolution to pay construction costs for a transitional housing project in Riverside known as Project Legacy. The new transitional housing will provide safe and sanitary housing to homeless individuals, especially vulnerable groups like LGBTQ youth, seniors, and individuals living with HIV or AIDS.

In September 2020, the county received a Homekey Program award for $4 million to acquire six adjacent properties located on Brockton Avenue, 9th Street and University Avenue for Project Legacy.

The board action this week moves the project from acquiring parcels to breaking ground. The funding consists of a $2 million loan carved from the county’s portion of federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).

“I am proud of the county’s commitment to fund important projects to serve our most vulnerable residents of Riverside County,” said Housing and Workforce Solutions Director Heidi Marshall. “This is just another example of how the board of supervisors strategically uses one-time federal funds to provide long-lasting investments in our county.”

Tenants will live at Project Legacy for up to 24 months, with the goal of transitioning to permanent housing after residents are equipped with skills to become self-sufficient. As tenants transition to permanent housing, wrap around services will continue to be available as needed. One of the properties is a commercial building that will become an on-site community Health and Justice Center, where wrap around services will be provided.

“Project Legacy is a meaningful opportunity to not only address the homeless and health epidemics in the region, but it is also a significant contribution to the revitalization of our community,” said TruEvolution Founder and CEO Gabe Maldonado.

TruEvolution, based in Riverside, is a local nonprofit dedicated to serving homeless individuals, and groups at higher risk of homelessness, including LGBTQ youth.

On Oct. 19, 2021, the Board of Supervisors allocated $50 million for the purpose of addressing homelessness through developing more affordable housing and providing shelter. The funds were divided into five $10 million investments to each supervisorial district. These funds focus on projects and programs that serve as a pathway to transition into permanent housing with the necessary supporting infrastructure.

 

 

Image Sources

  • LGBTQ housing: Shutterstock