The Solution - Shalom Properties is Paving the Way

Shalom Properties’ mission and vision is to develop affordable, safe, and stable housing options within the community and for the community by providing a place to call home for families in challenging and difficult situations through creative and innovative solutions.

In 2019, Shalom Properties purchased the Unitarian Church located at 1508 Market Street with plans to develop a portion of the space into permanent housing options for low-income families. Shalom Properties will be converting the church and adjacent lots into affordable housing and sheltering. The site currently is the home of the Shalom Transformation Center.

The Center will empower individuals and families, not only in local shelters but also in the community, who are at imminent risk of homelessness. The Center will also contain a drop-in location, operated by two full-time case managers and one part-time master’s level social worker, and open three days a week, on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, from 10:00 am - 3:00 pm.

The Center will offer job readiness training, Prepared Renters Education Program (PREP), case management services, and onsite counseling. All participants will have access to the internet, computers, fax machines, and copiers. The case management team will provide participants with one-on-one support by identifying resources, completing applications, and advocating for their needs with landlords, government agencies, etc. Each visitor to the Center will receive a bagged lunch and hygiene products such as toothbrushes, socks, shampoo, conditioner, feminine products, etc. It is our goal to make housing and mental health supports readily accessible for community members in hopes of preventing a family from being in a homeless situation.