PHOENIX (AZFamily) — A new affordable housing complex has opened in central Phoenix, aiming to provide more housing options for Arizona families in need. This initiative is part of broader efforts to address the housing crisis in the state.

Addressing the Housing Shortage

According to the National Low Income Housing Coalition, Arizona faces a significant shortage of affordable housing, with only 24 available low-income rentals per 100 low-income households. This gap leaves many families struggling to find stable housing. While the new apartment complex won't solve the issue entirely, it represents a significant step toward finding more resources for families in need.

A Fresh Start for Families

Norman Nicks, a single father of three, has faced numerous challenges in providing for his family. “I got custody of my kids recently, and going through the court process kind of shot my credit, so it was hard for me to get a house or anything,” Nicks explained. His situation improved when he discovered Mesquite Terrace, an affordable housing complex in central Phoenix managed by Catholic Charities.

“It gives me and the kids a chance to have a little bit of extra check at the end of the month,” Nicks said, highlighting the financial relief provided by the affordable rent.

Mesquite Terrace: A Community-Oriented Development

Mesquite Terrace, a 297-unit apartment complex, has been in development since 2021 and has just opened its doors to its first residents. Steve Capobres, executive director for Housing for Hope, emphasized the focus on families. “We really want to target families, and so over two-thirds of our units here are two and three bedrooms,” Capobres explained.

Community Features and Amenities

The design of Mesquite Terrace aims to foster a sense of community and support among residents. “They have common areas where they can get together, engage with one another. You’ll find play areas, sport courts, playgrounds,” Capobres said. These features are intended to provide a safe and engaging environment for children and families.

Nicks shared his positive experience: “This worked out perfectly for me and my kids. It kept us together. It also provided security for us so they would have a place to play.”

Supporting Financial Stability

Mesquite Terrace offers an environment that helps families like Nicks' get back on their feet. The affordability of the units, coupled with the supportive community features, provides a stable foundation for residents. Nicks encouraged others in similar situations to consider the opportunity. “Anybody that is in a financial situation and they are really looking for help, not to be a perpetual victim, but they actually want to get off their feet and they want to make something of themselves as like a jump-off to the next level, this is where you’d start off from,” he said.

Broader Impact

The opening of Mesquite Terrace is part of a larger effort to address the affordable housing crisis in Phoenix. In recent months, other developments have also been inaugurated, such as a 192-unit affordable housing complex in south Phoenix. These initiatives are receiving strong support from local leaders, including Governor Katie Hobbs, who has emphasized the importance of expanding affordable housing options.

Government and Community Support

In May, Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs signed into law HB 2720, which requires cities with a population of more than 75,000 people to allow accessory dwelling units (casitas) on properties zoned for single-family homes. This legislative change is aimed at increasing the availability of affordable housing across the state.

Challenges and Future Steps

While the opening of Mesquite Terrace is a positive step, significant challenges remain in addressing the housing crisis. The high demand for affordable housing means that many families are still on waiting lists for available units. Continued efforts are needed to expand affordable housing options and provide support for low-income families.

Conclusion

The opening of Mesquite Terrace represents hope and stability for families in need. By providing affordable, secure housing, developments like this help individuals and families build a better future. The initiative is a testament to the power of community support and effective public policy in addressing critical social issues.

For more information on affordable housing options and resources in Phoenix, residents can visit the Housing for Hope website or contact Catholic Charities for assistance. These organizations provide valuable support and resources to help families find and maintain stable housing.