From the Director's desk...

Let Freedom Ring!

 

As the 4th of July is upon us, we reflect upon the gifts of democracy, freedom, and independence in our great nation. At NVCSS, we believe that every day is "Independence Day" for those we serve. In fact, one of our Agency's guiding principles is "a belief that programs benefit people only when they contribute to the individual's freedom and independence." It may sound patriotic, especially this time of the year, yet what it emphasizes, is our commitment to helping people to help themselves. Perhaps there is no more tangible example of freedom and independence than in our Housing Program. 

 

The NVCSS Housing Department, led by Housing Director, Bobbi Sawtelle, and supported by an incredibly knowledgeable and dedicated staff, professionally manages nearly 300 units of housing across 4 counties. Providing a clean residence plays a significant role in encouraging people to be all that they can be. We are extremely proud to recognize 25 years of Housing at NVCSS in the "home of the brave and the land of the free". I encourage you to read the Housing update included in this newsletter for exciting new developments in Shasta and Butte Counties. 

Happy Independence Day!

 
Cathy Wyatt, Executive Director

NVCSS Housing: A Legacy 25 Years in the Making

 

The Northern Valley Catholic Social Service story traces its beginnings to the acquisition of Pine Street Place Apartments in 1990. This 10-unit apartment complex in Downtown Redding gave a place of dignity to teenage mothers and their babies. It was a clear indication of at least two things: 1) Having a roof over one's head is vital to their ability to maintain independence and 2) Affordable Housing is in dire need in the north state. Thanks to people like former Executive Director, Jan Maurer Watkins, and current Housing Director, Bobbi Sawtelle, and with the support of the Board of Directors and Housing Board, NVCSS has remained committed to address the need for affordable housing.  In fact, over the past 25 years, NVCSS has grown in its experience and expertise to now encompass 281 units in Butte, Shasta, Tehama, and Trinity Counties. 

 

New housing opportunities continue to expand in our communities. In Redding, NVCSS is partnering with Palm Communities, a California affordable housing developer, to construct 55 apartments serving low income families and mentally ill individuals. The Woodlands is supported by Shasta County and the City of Redding, providing critical financing for the project. The Woodlands will break ground in December 2015 and has an anticipated completion date of early spring 2017. NVCSS and Palm Communities will continue their partnership in the development of Valley View Apartments, a 15-unit complex located in Chico. Valley View will provide permanent supportive housing for individuals with serious mental illness at risk of homelessness.  Butte County and the City of Chico have been strong partners in the development process, providing financial support and encouragement towards the completion of this worthwhile project.

 

NVCSS provides assistance for residents of Lewiston Apartments in Trinity County and throughout our housing complexes in Shasta, Tehama, and Butte Counties to create an emotionally, as well as financially, supportive environment.  As the Agency looks to the next 25 years, the focus remains to equip residents with life skills and financial stability to further independence and self-sufficiency.
As our list of programs and services continues to grow, so does our need for your support. We hope you will consider donating to one of the many programs.
Your contributions are always appreciated. Thank you!