ANAHEIM, CALIF. — Jamboree Housing Corp. and H.O.M.E.S. Inc. (Helping Our Mentally Ill Experience Success) have developed Diamond Apartment Homes in Anaheim. Located at 1310 W. Diamond St., the green multifamily development will provide housing and mental health supportive services for previously homeless individuals and families in Orange County.
The three-story building offers 15 one-bedroom units and 10 two-bedroom units to tenants that earn 30 percent of the area median income. The fully furnished units feature Energy Star appliances, window and floor coverings, ample storage closets and private outdoor space. Additionally, the property features a 2,500-square-foot resident services center, which features a teaching kitchen, a multi-purpose room and a computer lab, as well as case management offices.
“Diamond Apartment Homes started when the City of Anaheim issued a Request for Proposal for several affordable housing sites,” says Laura Archuleta, president of Jamboree Housing Corp. “Jamboree responded and was awarded the site. The City was looking for affordable housing for families. After evaluating the site, the community needs and the funding options, we jointly decided to build a project to house those families where at least one member has a mental illness and has previously been homeless.”
Designed by KTGY Group Inc. to be the first GreenPoint Rated community, the project features numerous green elements and a close proximity to retail and medical services, which will reduce tenants’ utility costs. Project partners include the City of Anaheim, Anaheim Housing Authority and Anaheim Redevelopment Agency.
“By creating savings in utility costs, Jamboree further promotes the long-term sustainability of this affordable community,” notes David Obitz, a principal and designer at KTGY. “Also by locating near shopping, medical services, employment opportunities and schools, you’re reducing travel times and traffic, greenhouse gases and carbon emissions, simply by putting people closer to where they need to go.”
Telecare Corp. will provide residents with 24/7 availability to daily living activity support and information for other supportive and independent living services. Additionally, Jamboree’s Housing with HEART (Helping Educate, Activate and Respond Together) will offer free, non-clinical on-site programs and services tailored to the residents’ needs.
“Jamboree actively develops permanent housing targeted to folks with extremely low income,” explains Archuleta. “We currently are preparing to break ground on eight new developments located in Orange, Los Angeles, San Bernardino and Riverside counties.”
— Amy Bigley