Proposal: Resilience and Reintegration: An Individualized Affordable Housing Solution

 

Proposal: Resilience and Reintegration: An Individualized Affordable Housing Solution for Jason L. Varela

Applicant: Jason L. Varela

Fund Request: Innovation Fund - $2,000,000

Project Title: "Resilience and Reintegration: A Model for Individualized Affordable Housing"

Executive Summary:

This proposal seeks funding through the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA) Affordable Housing Trust Fund Innovation Fund to address the urgent housing needs of Jason L. Varela, a displaced worker experiencing homelessness and significant personal challenges. Mr. Varela has secured employment to begin on Monday, but lacks the stable housing necessary to maintain it. This project will utilize the Innovation Fund to create an individualized, sustainable housing solution tailored to his specific needs, demonstrating a replicable model for supporting individuals facing complex circumstances.

Problem Statement:

Jason L. Varela is currently homeless and facing a critical juncture. He has secured employment, but his lack of housing threatens his ability to maintain it and rebuild his life. He faces significant challenges, including:

• Financial Instability: No cash savings, reliance on EBT for food, and a history of housing instability since a 2009 layoff.
• Health Challenges: Diagnosed emotional, cognitive, and significant impediments due to workplace and economic trauma, and long-term exposure to workplace toxins.
• Limited Support: Lack of family support and difficulty maintaining stable relationships.

Proposed Solution:

This project proposes the creation of a self-contained, adaptable living space for Mr. Varela, utilizing the Innovation Fund to:

1. Acquire/Construct an Adaptable Dwelling:
   • A small, efficient dwelling (e.g., modular home, tiny home, renovated structure) tailored to Mr. Varela's needs.
   • Design prioritizing accessibility, safety, and a calming environment.
   • Strategic location with access to employment, transportation, and services.
2. Implement Smart Home Technology:
   • Technology to assist with daily living, reminders, and safety.
   • Addressing cognitive challenges and promoting independence.
3. Develop a Personalized Support Plan:
   • Collaboration with DVR and other agencies for ongoing support (job coaching, financial literacy, mental health).
   • Focus on empowering Mr. Varela to achieve self-sufficiency.
4. Create a Replicable Model:
   • Documenting the project process and outcomes as a case study.
   • Developing a framework for individualized housing solutions.

Alignment with Innovation Fund Priorities:

• ALICE Population: Directly addresses the needs of an individual within the ALICE population.
• Innovative Housing: Explores small, adaptable dwellings and smart home technology.
• Healthy Homes: Prioritizes a safe and supportive living environment.
• Targeted Population: Specifically designed for an individual with complex needs.
• New Housing Model: Creates a replicable model for individualized housing.

Threshold Requirements:

• Financial Feasibility: Detailed budget and financial plan will be provided.
• Site Control: Plan for site acquisition will be developed.
• Project Timeline: Realistic timeline for completion within two years.
• Support Letters: Letters of support from DVR and other agencies.
• Good Standing: Verification of good standing with relevant agencies.

Application Criteria:

• Organizational Capacity: Demonstrated through support network and ability to contract services.
• State Priorities: Sustainability, accessibility, and serving a vulnerable population.
• Leverage: Potential for replication and reduced reliance on public assistance.

Budget:

• Acquisition/Construction: $1,500,000
• Smart Home Technology: $100,000
• Support Services: $200,000
• Contingency and Administration: $200,000

Urgent Need:

Mr. Varela's imminent employment start date underscores the urgency of this request. Without immediate housing, he faces the risk of losing his job and falling further into instability. This project represents a critical opportunity to provide him with the foundation he needs to rebuild his life.

Conclusion:

This project offers a unique and innovative solution to address the complex housing needs of Mr. Varela and serves as a model for future initiatives. By investing in this individualized approach, the DCA can empower Mr. Varela to achieve self-sufficiency and contribute to the community.

Contact Information:

Jason L. Varela