CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Charlotte's newest affordable housing complex opened this week with 81 apartments available at below-market rent for seniors.
The Catholic Diocese of Charlotte Housing Corp. partnered with Douglas Development and Schaumber Development to open the $14-million housing project Guardian Angel Villa.
The groups teamed up to address the "severe lack of affordable housing," according to the press release.
“Cities across America are struggling to find ways to provide affordable housing, so it’s gratifying when you can bring together an innovative team to make a project like this work,” principal of Schaumber Development Drew Schaumber said. “This is a particularly meaningful project for our development companies because we get a chance to give back to people in need – while also teaming with new development partners.”
The property is a three-story apartment building built on a 20-acre tract of land located on South Tryon Street in Steele Creek. This development already houses Mother Teresa Villa which is a home for adults with developmental disabilities.
“We all feel very fortunate and blessed to be able to deliver these homes and touch peoples’ lives,” executive director of the housing corporation Adriel Cardenas said. “Naming this project Guardian Angel Villa is so fitting. We want all of our work to reflect the values of the Church, and to share the love of Christ and point people to Him in every way possible.”
Though residents will have to move in waves due to COVID-19 restrictions, developers anticipate the building will be fully leased by the early part of 2021.
“We are thankful for the opportunity to come together with so many devoted partners to help provide the comfort of home for some of Charlotte’s most vulnerable citizens,” president of the housing corporation and vicar general of the diocese Patrick Winslow said. “We look forward to watching the Guardian Angel community grow in fellowship, and we remain committed to providing housing options and other relief to our brothers and sisters in need.”
Guardian Angel Villa will lease to residents over the age of 55 with 75% of the apartments set aside for those earning 60% or less the area's median income. One-quarter will be leased to seniors who earn 30% or less the area's median income. Rents should range from $342 to $866, depending on applicants’ income, household and apartment size.
Guardian Angel Villa will be the fourth affordable housing project tackled by the Catholic housing corporation. The diocese said they have provided 153 affordable housing units in the Charlotte region and in nearby Salisbury since its founding in 2001.
“Peace to this household,” Bishop Peter J. Jugis said in blessing Guardian Angel Villa last week, as he sprinkled holy water throughout the 102,000-square-foot building. “Let us now pray that He will enter this residence, this home, and bless it ... May He always be here among the residents, may He nurture their love for each other. May He share in their joys and comfort them in their sorrows.”
Guardian Angel Villa features outdoor spaces, front porches and balconies, a chapel and gardens.
All apartments are designed to cater to those who may have physical disabilities.