A homeless shelter in Fort Worth has dedicated an affordable housing development at its campus and started construction on the next phase. Union Gospel Mission opened more than 100 apartments last year but held an official dedication Tuesday.
"One of the biggest needs in Tarrant County is affordable housing," says Union Gospel Mission President Don Shisler. "The problem we have is finding decent, affordable housing for people to move out to."
"The Vineyard on Lancaster" has 88 one-bedroom apartments and 16 two-bedroom apartments. The entire project cost $22 million and was funded through private donations and federal housing tax credits.
The apartments are fully leased. Union Gospel Mission is now starting construction on an additional 68 apartments.
Shisler says he expects demand to keep increasing as eviction moratoriums, extended unemployment and rental assistance come to an end.
"COVID cut our population in half because we had to use six foot distancing, which we're breaking out of now and opening our doors like we used to," he says. "There are a lot of people who've been protected because they couldn't be evicted. I think those numbers are going to grow exponentially."
"The Vineyard on Lancaster" includes a clinic and space for childcare, counseling and classes.
"This just adds an extra piece that shows people we care," says Mayor Betsy Price. "It means we can help get more people back to work and back on their feet."
Price says projects like this aim to help people who are homeless become self-sufficient.
"We'll never get them out of homelessness if they don't get wrap-around services," she says. "That includes their health. That includes education. That includes childcare and tutoring for the kids after school."
The additional apartments, called "The Crossroads," are being built in the same area along Lancaster. The project will cost an additional $12 million.
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