Executive Summary

 

 

CPCH is building a village of 20 small rental homes in Crestone for people most in need of affordable housing and a supportive community to age in place with predictable housing expenses, near their friends and established connections.

The design of Living Wisdom Village, Elders Creating Community (LWV) incorporates a communal, yet independent housing approach, with naturally occurring opportunities for engagement with other residents. The community center will provide social stability through numerous on-site activities including communal meal preparation and dining, appropriate fitness and wellness programs, dedicated space for arts and crafts, centralized computer space, theater/TV room, and a room designated for private meetings and wellness consultations.

The LWV project aims to improve health equity for older adults experiencing poverty, disability, isolation, and ageism. It will strengthen support systems and the environment that enables seniors to remain in their homes and community as they age.

An updated Housing Market Analysis received in July 2020 reports a demand for 151 new affordable rental units for seniors in Saguache County; this represents a 62% increase over 4 years, when the 2016 Housing Market Study reported the demand at 93 units. There are currently 50 people on the interest list for LWV’s 20 units. LWV’s goal is to build this project debt-free, to keep rents for our residents, most of whom live on $800-$1,200 monthly social security income, truly affordable—approximately 1/3 of their income. Construction will begin in spring, 2024.

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