Developers have secured key financing to build a 52-unit affordable and supportive housing development in Plainfield, Indiana.
Through the partnership between RealAmerica Cos. and nonprofit Sheltering Wings, 25% of the affordable apartments have project-based vouchers and will serve survivors of domestic violence.
Additionally, all residents at Haven Homes will have access to supportive services in the community resource center and clubhouse, with mental health services provided by Cummins Behavioral Health Systems and domestic abuse support provided by Sheltering Wings.
Not only will the apartment community serve former and current residents of Sheltering Wings, but Haven Homes provides affordable housing to other families in Hendricks County.
Merchants Capital, a mortgage banking company headquartered in Indiana, announced that it is providing $10 million in financing for the development.
“Where you call home determines so many things about your life. This project not only amplifies the dedicated mission of Sheltering Wings, but also shares the importance of affordable housing, especially in rapidly growing areas such as Plainfield,” said Brian Shelbourne, Merchants Capital’s assistance vice president of originations. “Merchants Capital was honored to partner with RealAmerica Cos. and Sheltering Wings to bring this project to life. Together, we’re shining a light on these issues and supplying safe, secure, high-quality affordable housing where everyone, including survivors of domestic abuse, can prosper and grow.”
When survivors of domestic violence are secure enough to move out of Sheltering Wings, one of the challenges becomes finding an affordable home.
“Studies continue to show among the greatest barriers to develop stability and independence are affordable housing, reliable transportation, affordable child care, and access to mental health services,” said Sheltering Wings executive director Cassie Mecklenburg. “Haven Homes allows us to help families with several of these areas, and we don’t take this opportunity lightly. We want to be advocates for families to establish safety, succeed, and build self-sufficiency. It is an honor to partner with other like-minded organizations who care about our families and community.”
As Cummins Behavioral Health Systems administers the mental health services, Sheltering Wings will in tandem use the community room to build their life skills programming, conduct case management, share prevention and education programs, administer health services, and support the children and survivors of domestic abuse.
“We are honored to partner with the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority (IHCDA) and the town of Plainfield to bring affordable housing to families that work in the community,” RealAmerica president and owner Ronda Weybright said. “By partnering with Sheltering Wings and Cummins Behavioral Health, we are able to provide services on site that encourage stability and independence to help families thrive, while living in a beautiful and affordable environment.”
