Supportive Housing Development in District 9 Inaugurated as The Etta James

LOS ANGELES - Sept. 20, 2021 - PRLog -- The Etta James Building launched this innovative partnership. Along with inaugurating the facility with a new name, there will be a housewarming fiesta provided for the residents and the creation of a live mural on the rooftop, courtesy of artist and former HHCLA client, Edik Keshishyan.

The model is the only known of its kind, utilizing private developer, RMG Housing, to construct market-rate capital with zero taxpayer subsidy. Units constructed by RMG Housing average out to under $200,000.

"Throughout our City, we are making huge strides in gaining momentum to combat the homelessness crisis through the collaboration and persistence of like-minded organizations such as RMG and Homeless Health Care Los Angeles," said Councilman Curren Price. "I am excited to add 'The Etta James' to the inventory of thousands of affordable housing units coming down the line in District 9. This new complex will serve as a place where neighbors will not only have a stable place to lay their heads, but they will also be afforded a healthy and supportive environment where they can live independently and with dignity."

Located in the Jazz Corridor of Council District 9, the Etta James offers 21 permanent supportive housing units. On- site services include: communal rooftop space, job assistance, rental assistance, linkages to health, mental health, and substance use treatment, as well as ongoing case and holistic management.

"Today's inauguration of the Etta James commits our organizations to work closely to achieve the goal of constructing 25 PSH projects that will house over 1,000 people by 2025," said Mark Casanova, Executive Director of HHCLA.

The impact of the Etta James, while being life-changing for the 21 tenants living on site, is amplified in that its success has led to a new model for permanent supportive housing (PSH).

The full list of speakers includes: Mark Casanova, Executive Director of HHCLA; Tim Roth, President & CEO of RMG Housing; Deborah La Franchi, President & CEO of Strategic Capital Group; CD 9 Councilmember Curren D. Price, Jr.; Kush Simpson, Artist and Resident of the Etta James; and Samantha Martinez, HHCLA Board Member.