UMOM New Day Centers, Arizona’s innovative leader in shelter, supportive services and housing for families, single women and youth experiencing homelessness, has opened its newest affordable housing complex in south Phoenix called South 7th Village.
Arizona continues to grapple with a severe shortage of affordable housing. According to a national report released by the National Low-Income Housing Coalition (NLIHC), full-time workers need to earn $21.10 per hour to afford a modest two-bedroom apartment at fair market in Arizona. With a minimum wage of $12 an hour in Arizona, workers must work 57 hours per week to afford a one-bedroom apartment.
“It’s not a surprise to anyone that metro Phoenix faces a severe shortage of affordable housing,” said UMOM CEO Darlene Newsom. “Without this kind of affordable option, people can end up in unsafe or inadequate housing. Too often, people in our community live paycheck to paycheck or barely get by on social security with no sign of relief. One medical bill or an unexpected expense puts them right back to where they started.”
Affordable housing is a statewide issue. The need is underscored by the fact that when South 7th Village officially opened, all 54 apartments had already been leased.
The 90 new construction, high-quality, affordable apartment homes are for people aged 55+, with a demonstrated need and a preference for veterans. The complex has 63 one-bedroom/one-bathroom units and 27 two-bedroom/one-bathroom units and is designed to meet the needs of seniors. It includes a leasing center, community center, computer lab, walking trail, and various other outdoor activities and lounge areas. With the addition of South 7th Village, UMOM now has over 500 affordable housing units in Phoenix.
Thanks to the generous support of Carlisle Companies Incorporated, a Phoenix based diversified industrial company, veterans at South 7th Village have received new furniture and houseware items. New resident, veteran Johnnie McGee shared, “I feel blessed beyond belief. This is the life that I have been waiting to live for so many years. Thank you for your kindness and compassion in helping me get here.”
