Archbishop Alex J. Brunett of Seattle will bless Santa Teresita del Niño Jesús, permanent housing for families transitioning from homelessness, on Wednesday, Sept. 9 at 2 p.m.

Church and community leaders are scheduled to participate. The site is located at 2427 S.W. Holden St., in the Delridge neighborhood of West Seattle. A reception will follow. 

In addition to Archbishop Brunett, speakers at the blessing will be: Tobias W. Washington, Jr., president of Homestead Capital; Adrienne Quinn, director of the City of Seattle Office of Housing; David Wertheimer, senior program officer, Pacific Northwest, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation; and Evelyn Gomez-Ortiz, a resident of Santa Teresita del Niño Jesús. 

The Archdiocesan Housing Authority (AHA) is the developer of the site, and manages it. The housing is fully occupied. 

Santa Teresita provides 26 two- and three-bedroom units in four buildings. Two of the units are reserved for persons with physical disabilities, and six are reserved for large households. Also on site are two offices for residents to meet privately with counselors and case managers.

Residents also have access to community space where they can gather for community events and attend classes and workshops. There is play equipment for children and a basketball court.   

“The fact that 26 apartments were rented in less than 30 days emphasizes the need for safe, affordable housing for homeless families in Seattle," Rob Van Tassell, AHA director of housing and community development, said. "Formerly homeless families now have a safe, decent place to call home. Hopeful families are now building community and making connections to services and opportunities. The children of Santa Teresita del Niño Jesús will soon be walking to the school they will attend all year; they have stability. This is what AHA seeks to provide: safety, stability and connections.”  

Throughout Western Washington, AHA provides more than 1,900 affordable permanent housing units in 44 programs, serving individuals, families, seniors and persons with special physical and mental needs. Most AHA housing includes resident support services to assist low-income persons be successful in staying in decent, affordable housing.