Built in 2023, the Canal Affordable Housing has two triplexes and one duplex that house five one-bedroom and three two-bedroom units. Community Homes of Lebanon County was awarded a $750,000 Affordable Housing Program (AHP) grant through the support of the Federal Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh’s member, Jonestown Bank & Trust Co.
Lisa lived on the second floor of an efficiency apartment, which was close to her job. Her living room and bedroom were in the same space, giving her virtually no privacy. There were loud parties nearby and train tracks in her backyard. During this time, Lisa had to undergo multiple intense surgeries on her spine, each with long recoveries. She needed a walker to aid in recovery, and as her mobility was limited, she was having trouble living in her non-accommodating apartment.
Things changed when she was encouraged to put her name on a list to be moved into the Canal Street’s affordable housing complex. This housing has no length of stay limitation for the units and provides supportive services that allow renters to succeed in life.
As part of this multi-unit project, Lisa now has an accessible single-floor home with her own bedroom, a shower that she can sit in, and a patio with greenspace on a quiet road. Since moving, Lisa now enjoys being able to watch her grandchildren at her home. She is also thrilled that her 13-year-old cat is acting young again.
