Allies creates neighborhoods of inclusion for residents
Since 1999, the Housing Division of Allies, Inc. has been developing custom affordable homes to address the broad spectrum of needs of the people we serve. Working in partnership with government entities at the local, state, and federal levels, as well as with private funders and other developers, Allies has built or renovated more than 60 homes, townhouses and condominiums for people with special needs with plans to double that number in the next few years.
“Allies is building neighborhoods of inclusion across New Jersey by increasing the number of affordable housing opportunities for people with special needs. We strive to make every community in which we build, renovate or rent housing an even better community for everyone to work, play and raise a family.” says Doug Conkling, Senior Vice President of Housing, Allies, Inc.
Allies also supports more than 100 people in affordable apartment rentals in communities throughout New Jersey. This supported housing stock is essential in promoting inclusion, supporting diversity, and advancing greater self-reliance for the people we serve. Safe, secure, affordable housing is a basic human need to which all should have access. This is something Allies works to achieve every day and will continue to do so.
“You mean I get to live here?” That was Jorge’s reaction after touring his beautiful, new Allies shared living residence set on an acre in South Jersey.
Jorge, age 23, lived in and out of foster homes since childhood.
Allies gave him something that most of us take for granted – the power to decide where he wanted to live and with whom. Jorge now lives with roommates who support each other. They are his family. For the first time in his life, Jorge is really settled. He is finally home.
“Allies works closely with families to find just the right home for their loved ones. Nothing is more important to us than creating that safe, secure and treasured place called home where individuals of all abilities are free to enjoy their lives and fulfill their potential,” says Elise Tretola, President & CEO Allies, Inc.
Self-directed services through Allies’ Residential Department allow people and their families to customize their supports. For one person it may be services that allow them to keep their son or daughter in their home. For others, it may be the assistance they need to move out on their own.
Allies has developed over 150 homes in the State of New Jersey for people just like Jorge to live in. People make their own decisions on where they want to settle and whether they want to live alone or with other people. Nothing differentiates them from their neighbors except that they may have someone from Allies in their home to take care of their day-to-day medical needs, to provide transportation to the grocery store, or just to make sure they are safe. Whether they rent, own or share supports with others; their homes are just like everyone else’s. They are about the people who live there and their unique needs, hopes, dreams and desires.