Categories: New York City, Member News, Openings
06.04.2024
On June 3rd, Federation of Organizations, elected officials and project partners gathered to celebrate the ribbon-cutting of the Barbara Faron Residence, named after Federation of Organizations’ CEO Barbara Faron who has been a driving force of positive change since 1986. This new residence brings 118 apartments, 71 which are supportive for individuals in recovery from behavioral health conditions to the Far Rockaway section of Queens. On-site services are provided by Federation of Organizations and funded through the NYC 15/15 initiative administered by the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene.
Emily Lehman, HPD Deputy Commissioner of New Construction and Finance remarked, "The need for supportive has never been so pressing. Supportive housing is the gold standard for helping people stay out of shelter and stay stabilized in affordable housing where they can thrive. We're very proud that this project is a part of our NYC 15/15 initiative, she added, “These are more than units, these are lifelines.”
Borough President Donovan Richards remarked, “This is one of 2 places in NYC that has had the steepest declines in crime post pandemic. It shows that when you house, invest and give people economic opportunity and upward mobility you can change the face of a community." He continued: "When we talk about 71 units set-aside for formerly homeless, that’s 71 fresh starts for the most vulnerable and marginalized amongst us. We must rid society of the stigma attached to homelessness and mental health. There's nothing wrong with needing services. There's nothing wrong with supportive housing. Affordable housing can be beautiful, yes you deserve an open view on the 7th floor".
Barbara Faron, Federation of Organizations’ CEO expressed pride in the residence, stating "The idea was always self-help, peer support, people in need helping each other out to access resources to improve their lives. This building represents another step in that journey."
Derek Glencamp, tenant at the Barbara Faron Residence remarked, "I came on November 8th, 2023. I never thought I'd be in a building like this. I was in the shelter for 16 months, struggling, with nobody but God. The housing team at the shelter asked if I wanted to come here and I told them yes, and my wish came true. I'm so happy to be here. The staff are great and the residents are too. I have the motivation to do better for myself."
Christian Lekkas, also a tenant expressed gratitude, stating “I was homeless for 2 years before I came here. This gave me the opportunity of stability - to be able to rest my head, to eat, to be peace with myself and my Lord. It’s a blessing to be safe."
Building amenities includes a laundry facility, community room, exercise room, reading room with access to a terrace, and 24/7 front desk and security personnel.
Funding for this project comes from New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development, Richman Group, Merchants Capital and investment by Santander.
Mega Contracting Group is the general contractor, Urban Architectural Initiatives is the architect, and CSD Housing is the development consulting firm.
Press:
https://www.rockawaytimes.com/barbara-faron-residence-opens-in-far-rockaway/