Housing Solutions of Northern Arizona Celebrates Opening of Oak Wash Homes in Cottonwood
In a significant development for affordable housing in Yavapai County, Housing Solutions of Northern Arizona has officially inaugurated Oak Wash Homes, a project designed to combat homelessness and support low-income families. The ribbon-cutting ceremony took place at the site of the former Verde Valley Inn, strategically located at 1089 SR 260 in Cottonwood. This initiative marks a vital step toward addressing the acute housing shortages faced in the Verde Valley region.
The Arizona Department of Housing (ADOH) invested .8 million in funding to facilitate the acquisition and transformation of the inn into 32 permanent apartments dedicated to low-income households. This converted space is tailored specifically for individuals and families experiencing homelessness, offering them a stable living environment as they work towards regaining self-sufficiency.
Oak Wash Homes is set to operate under a dual framework over the coming decades. In its initial phase, spanning the first five years, the facility will provide permanent supportive housing to homeless residents in Cottonwood. This structure not only aims to house individuals but also to connect them with supportive services that can help address their specific needs, including access to healthcare, job training, and counseling.
After the initial phase, from years six to forty, the homes will continue to serve the community by offering affordable apartments for households earning up to 60% of the area median income—an essential resource in a region where housing affordability remains a pressing issue. Each tenant will be able to sign leases that are eligible for renewal, ensuring a sense of stability and security for those who reside there.
The establishment of Oak Wash Homes is particularly timely, as communities across the United States grapple with rising housing costs and the increasing rates of homelessness. The partnership between Housing Solutions of Northern Arizona and ADOH exemplifies a collaborative effort to create sustainable housing solutions specifically tailored to meet the needs of vulnerable populations.
In summary, the Oak Wash Homes initiative represents not just a physical space but a comprehensive approach to addressing homelessness and fostering self-reliance among community members. As local officials and advocates celebrate this milestone, the project underscores the necessity of continuing investments in affordable housing—vital for the health and prosperity of the larger Verde Valley community.
