MEDIA ADVISORY December 4, 2008
Contact: BJ Iacino (303)-285-5223 biacino@coloradocoalition.org
Date: Thursday, December 4 Time: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm Location: 388 East 88 Avenue, Thornton, Colorado 80229 Please join Thornton Mayor Erik Hansen, State Representative Edward Casso, Councilwoman Jan Bach and Coalition President John Parvensky at the Grand Opening Dedication of Renaissance 88 Apartments. Poverty rates throughout America have been rising since 2000, including significant increases in suburban areas. The suburban poor, at about 12 million, outnumbered their inner-city counterparts for the first time in 2005, the last year for which data is available. Traditionally, cities have been viewed as home to poor populations, surrounded by middle- and upper-income suburbs. This ’tipping’ of poor populations to the suburbs represents a landmark development that changes historical notions about who lives in cities and suburbs. At the local level, the enduring social and fiscal challenges for cities that stem from high poverty levels are now shared by their suburbs. Public and private efforts that give growing suburban poor populations access to economically integrated neighborhoods and supportive services could enhance economic security and mobility for a significant number of Americans. Renaissance 88 Apartments provides the Thornton community with 180 one, two, three and four bedroom apartment homes serving formerly homeless families and individuals with disabilities. The development is subsidized through Federal Rental Assistance for Low-Income Families (Section 8). After acquiring the property in 2007, the Coalition has now completed significant renovations, including energy-efficient improvements. A 4,300-square foot clubhouse with a computer lab and a deck overlooking a playground, and a community garden, foster a sense of community. Ten apartment homes accommodate individuals with physical disabilities. On-site case management and support services are provided to residents as needed. The mission of the Colorado Coalition for the Homeless is to work collaboratively toward the prevention of homelessness and the creation of lasting solutions for homeless and at-risk families, children, and individuals throughout Colorado. CCH advocates for and provides a continuum of housing and a variety of services to improve the health, well-being and stability of those it serves. ###