Foundation announces grand opening of affordable housing project
San Bernardino, CA July 17, 2012 – Time for Change Foundation, a nonprofit organization providing housing and leadership development to homeless women and children in San Bernardino, CA is proud to announce the completion of the first phase of its three-phased affordable housing project, known as the Phoenix Square. The grand opening of the Phoenix Square is set for July 25, 2012 at 8:30 a.m. Located at 657 North “F” Street, the project began back in early 2011 with the purchase of a seven-unit apartment structure that underwent major remodeling and renovation.
The Phoenix Square’s housing is open to very-low income families and individuals who make less than half of the area’s median income. “Thus far, there has been an overwhelming response for this type of housing,” said John Kunkel, Director of Communications.
The Phoenix Square still has two additional phases that need completion. The plans for the second phase include developing a combination of housing and community space, and creating a garden for organic micro-enterprises which will establish a place where the community can attend educational classes and meetings, as well as a space for residents to manage their respective businesses.
The Third phase will be to develop a solar paneled parking structure for reusable energy that is “grid-neutral” allowing for the Phoenix Square to “go green.”
“The Phoenix Square will be a tremendous asset to the surrounding community,” said John Kunkel. “It really sets the standard for low-income housing in Southern California, and it is a prime example of what it looks like to transform a neighborhood into a sustainable community. Our vision is to develop more projects like this in the future.”
The Foundation is proud to report that there was a positive economic impact that came about thanks to this project. With a focus on putting money back into the local economy, Time for Change contracted and hired local companies and individuals who were essential in bringing the Phoenix Square to life.
The Phoenix Square was awarded the CPTED (Crime Prevention through Environmental Design), and the Crime-Free Multi Housing Certification provided by the City of San Bernardino.
To find out more about the Phoenix Square and Time for Change Foundation please visit www.timeforchangefoundation.org.