Categories: New York City, Openings
09.20.2023
On September 19th, Selfhelp Community Services Inc. and Selfhelp Realty Group joined developers and elected officials for a ribbon-cutting ceremony for new affordable/supportive housing residence, The Allan and Geraldine Rosenberg Residence in Freeport, Nassau County. The residence is creating 45 affordable apartments for adults aged 55 and older, 14 of which are set aside for formerly homeless seniors. On-site services are provided by Selfhelp Community Services and funded by the Empire State Supportive Housing Initiative (ESSHI) through the New York State Department of Health.
Evelyn Wolff, Executive Director of Selfhelp Realty Group, opened the ceremony and said, “Designed by the renowned Studio Libeskind, this iconic building reflects our commitment to affordable housing and community-centered design. Working with the visionary architect Daniel Libeskind has been an incredible honor, as his innovative design prioritizes community and creates a sense of belonging.”
Stuart C. Kaplan, CEO of Selfhelp Community Services Inc., said, "Affordable housing with onsite social services is a transformative solution that addresses both the housing crisis and the well-being of older adults aging in their own homes. By combining affordable housing with the Selfhelp Active Services for Aging Model, The Allan & Geraldine Rosenberg residence provides older adults with the resources they need to live with independence and dignity.”
RuthAnne Visnauskas, New York State Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner said, “The $25 million Allan and Geraldine Rosenberg Residence provides an affordable and enjoyable living experience for 45 New Yorkers in a uniquely designed and resilient development. With age-friendly features and life-enhancing supportive services, residents will benefit from living in a comfortable and active community. Congratulations to Selfhelp and our other partners for bringing this much-needed senior housing development to Freeport.”
Michael Staton, Managing Director at CPC Mortgage Company, said, “We are proud to have had the opportunity to play a role in bringing the Allan and Geraldine Rosenberg Residence to the Freeport community. These beautiful energy efficient, sustainable homes are not only affordable, they also provide a supportive environment that will allow many of the tenants to find stability and independence.”
Daniel Libeskind, Architect at Studio Libeskind, said, “Senior housing isn’t just about accommodation; it’s about people. It’s about creating a residence where residents can feel happy, secure, and emotionally connected to their neighbors. Above all, it’s about creating a vibrant community.”
Erica Diaz, a resident of the new building, said “Before I lived here, I did not have a permanent apartment. Affordable housing is essential to every community and especially to me as I would not be here speaking to you today without it. Moving here created stability and security knowing that this will be my forever home and it has provided a new sense of community. I will respect my home as I know what it is like not to have one.”
Building amenities include a rooftop terrace, walking track, a community space, laundry room, and storage space. The building also incorporates a Passive Housing design and exceeds the Enterprise Green Communities’ standards and adheres to the NYSERDA ‘green’ practices for design.
Funding for this project comes from NYS HCR 9% federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credits, Nassau County HOME funds, Capital One, Hudson Housing Capital, CPC Mortgage Company, Freddie Mac, The Harry & Jeanette Weinberg Foundation, and TD Bank.
The architect is Studio Libeskind and the general contractor is Procida Construction Corp.
Press:
https://libn.com/2023/09/19/ribbon-cutting-for-25m-freeport-senior-housing-project/
https://thenyhc.org/projects/bergen-place/
https://www.newsday.com/business/freeport-affordable-apartments-daniel-libeskind-dnqkwx2i
https://www.longislandpress.com/2023/09/19/freeport-housing-unit/
https://patch.com/new-york/freeport/45-unit-affordable-housing-ready-welcome-residents-freeport
https://www.archpaper.com/2023/09/studio-libeskinds-rosenberg-residences-open-in-long-island-marking-the-firms-first-built-project-in-new-york/