Our long-standing commitment to building new affordable multi-family homes in the Chicago market continues.
This fall, Powers & Sons Construction began work on a new three-story, 14-unit community for Breakthrough Urban Ministries. The nonprofit organization provides transitional and permanent housing, as well as a range of support services, for individuals and families experiencing homelessness and housing instability in East Garfield Park.
“This project is an opportunity to help address Chicago’s affordable housing crisis,” said Yolanda Fields, executive director. “Our mission is to help local families live with dignity in a stable environment while removing barriers that prevent them from moving forward in life. We call this new building The Turning Point because our goal is help residents turn the page on past challenges and create secure futures,” Fields reported. Breakthrough serves about 21,000 Chicagoans each year.
The project will help address a critical shortage of affordable homes in East Garfield Park. According to the Illinois Policy Institute, 88% of low-income Chicago families making under $35,000 a year face burdensome housing costs, which cause 56% to spend over half of their monthly income for housing. Rents for the two- and three-bedroom units at The Turning Point will be capped at 30% of each household’s monthly income.
Residents can choose to participate in a range of comprehensive programs and services, including high school and post-secondary education for adults. Breakthrough also offers career development programs, job training and placement services, and financial counseling to help residents increase their incomes.
“Many of the people we serve want to pursue new career paths and jobs with better pay, but they need skills training, childcare assistance, and other support to prepare them for new opportunities,” Fields explained.
“Everything will be within easy walking distance for local residents, including a food pantry that is next door. Down the block residents can access our preschool and after-school programs, a health clinic with fitness center, and other services,” Fields added.
Learn more about Breakthrough’s programs, its impact in the community, and how you can get involved at breakthrough.org.
