The development will have 70 units of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments. 59 of the units will be for people living on a fixed income due to disability. Couleecap Executive Director Hetti Brown said, “This is a new and unique housing development that will provide independent living options for adults with disabilities, alongside the general population without disabilities in an inclusive 70-unit apartment building.”
Brown hopes that Haven on Main can serve as an example to other communities. “There is currently nothing of this kind in this community where there is an independent living option for adults with disabilities. We actually looked not only across the community, but across the state, and there’s only one other model of this kind.”
Michael and Brandy Rea donated $1 million towards the fundraising campaign. They have a child with autism and explained that housing is a concern for any parent who has a child with any disability. Brandy said, “I’d say it’s probably the biggest concern for a special needs parent and for us as well with our son, is what’s going to happen to our son if something happens to us. Where is he going to live? How is he going to be supported by the community? I know that is a concern of most parents.”
Michael added, “Being able to, obviously, see something close to home with a mission that is really important to us, which is helping to serve the community… the special needs community… that needs some support is the reason that we’ve embraced this project.”
The public phase of the campaign has already raised $3.7 million. Approximately $500,000 remains to be raised before they reach their goal. Groundbreaking for the project is scheduled for late August or early September.
Original Article – by: Dashal Mentzel https://www.wiproud.com/news/local-news/city-of-la-crosse-to-begin-affordable-housing-development-that-will-also-serve-those-with-disabilities/