Construction is underway to transform the former Sisters of St. Joseph of Orange Motherhouse into a new affordable housing community for seniors who have been impacted by homelessness.
The Sisters donated the building so it can be converted into Villa St. Joseph, a vibrant apartment complex that will feature 50, studio and one-bedroom apartments, beautiful gardens, and onsite supportive services for residents. Many public and private partners have also come together to provide critical funding for the new $37 million community, including UnitedHealth Group, which is the largest investor.
During a hardhat tour of the construction site, Sister Mary Beth Ingham, General Superior of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Orange, explained their vision for the project, saying, “we sisters love this building, our former Motherhouse as it holds rich memories for most of us who walked through these doors to begin our religious life. However, at this time in history, when the need for affordable housing is paramount, we can think of no greater way to help than to share what we have, and what we no longer need, with others.”
Mercy Housing California, the developer of the project added, “we are thrilled to honor our deep partnership with the Sisters of St. Joseph of Orange by transforming their historic Motherhouse into a thriving community in which seniors can age in health and dignity,” said vice president of Real Estate Development Ed Holder.
Courtesy photo
In addition to completely reconfiguring the interior building structure into apartments, there will be a new lobby and reception areas, community room, outdoor terrace, laundry rooms, and storage areas. A beautiful outdoor community space with gardens, sitting areas, and a pergola is also being built. Mercy will manage the property when it opens next summer and partner with the County of Orange to provide case management and service support for formerly homeless residents. They will also provide resident services for residential assistance, adult education, and health and wellness programming.
Tami Adams, CEO, UnitedHealthcare of Southern California, part of UnitedHealth Group, which provided $16.3 million in equity through a Low-Income Housing Tax Credit partnership with Enterprise Housing Credits Investments, explained their investment, saying, “at UnitedHealth Group, we recognize that there is a strong connection between housing and health. If you don’t have a safe place to call home, it can be difficult to feel secure or to manage your overall health and well-being.”
Additional funding includes loans from the State of California ($5.6 million), the County of Orange ($6.1 million), the City of Orange ($1.6 million) and the Sisters of St. Joseph of Orange ($5.7 million). Umpqua Bank is providing the construction loan.
“This new community will provide new, affordable housing for seniors in the region who need a helping hand,” said Orange Mayor Dan Slater. “We are so thankful to the Sisters of St. Joseph, Mercy Housing, and all the partners involved in this important project for their continued commitment to people in need.”
More information about Villa St. Joseph is available at (657) 822-0135 or www.mercyhousing.org/california/.
