(FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – New York, NY) Volunteers of America – Greater New York (VOA-GNY) is proud to announce that its Creston Avenue Residence has been named “Residence of the Year” by the Supportive Housing Network of New York (the Network).
The award was presented on October 18, 2017 at the Network’s 2017 Awards Gala which took place at Capitale in Lower Manhattan. The Supportive Housing Network of New York is a membership organization representing 200 nonprofit organizations that have collectively created more than 50,000 units of supportive housing across New York State.
Located in the South Fordham section of the Bronx, Creston Avenue Residence provides safe, permanent, supportive housing and services to some of New York City’s most vulnerable citizens, including formerly homeless families and single adults. The building also provides transitional housing to homeless veterans and 16 units are set aside, through a lottery system, for low-income families from the community. In total, there are 66 apartments.
The 62,535-square foot LEED Platinum-certified building is a welcoming place and offers 24-hour security, rooftop gardens, a backyard play area and community space for special events. A first-floor suite of offices provides tenants a comfortable place to meet with social service professionals. A truly integrated residence, all tenants are encouraged to take advantage of referral services for health, mental health and employment, and periodic workshops on daily living skills. Recreational services, including after-school activities for young children and homework help for students, are provided daily. Special events, year round, provide a true sense of community for all residents.
High-quality construction materials plus state-of-the-art systems provide improved air and water quality, while saving energy and reducing costs.
Sydney Kopp-Richardson, the Network’s Program Services Director, said, “Creston Avenue Residence has been singled out as a Residence of the Year because of its exquisite design, architecture and programming. It is a stunning example of the power of supportive housing in the lives of individuals and communities. Volunteers of America – Greater New York’s innovative work is truly remarkable. Creston truly is a glowing lantern on the block.”
Tere Pettitt, President and CEO of VOA-GNY, said, “Volunteers of America, Inc. empowers its local affiliates to address the needs of their communities, and Creston Avenue Residence is our response to the critical need of supportive housing in New York City. We are proud of the work we do, day in and day out, serving tens of thousands of our neighbors in need every year, and humbled by the Supportive Housing Network of New York for its recognition.”
Creston Avenue Residence opened in 2015. Development partners included Robert Sanborn and Volunteers of America – Greater New York. The building was designed by Magnusson Architecture and Planning (MAP). Fernando Villa served as project architect.
DePaul’s Carriage Factory Apartments in Rochester, NY is also being recognized by the Network as a Residence of the Year.