This month People’s Self-Help Housing (PSHH) will be opening a new property called Heath House on East Sola Street in Santa Barbara. The historic building was formerly a hospice for AIDS patients. In 2020 PSHH purchased the property, with plans for an extensive restoration and rehabilitation.
“We were thrilled to have the opportunity to restore this historic property and to bring much-needed permanent affordable housing to the city of Santa Barbara,” said Morgen Benevedo, executive vice president of PSHH. “Heath House is truly one of a kind, and we look forward to welcoming our new residents home in a few short weeks.”
Once completed, Heath House will provide housing for seven formerly homeless women in the area. The two-story, 2,500 square-foot home will have seven bedrooms, five bathrooms, multiple common areas, and a shared kitchen and dining room.
PSHH will provide onsite supportive services, including case management, counseling, education programs, and compassionate property management, all free for the residents.
At the end of 2020, community donations of some $34,000 were raised to help complete the furnishings, provide bedding and personal items, and other household essentials for the new residents. However, there is still time to make a donation and help turn the house into a home before move-in day.
Remaining donations are needed to complete the landscaping, provide a community garden, and to add finishing touches in the restful outdoor areas.
To support the women of Heath House, donations can be made at pshhc.org/hhgiving. To learn more about the project, watch the Property Promo and see how this house has come to life.
For more about People’s Self-Help Housing, visit pshhc.org, email info@pshhc.org, or phone 805-781-3088.