The Kitchen, Inc. debuted its new affordable and permanent housing on Wednesday with a ribbon cutting. KSMU’s Anna Thomas has the story of one of the dozens of families that will benefit.
Deborah Wetzel and her four grandchildren have utilized many of The Kitchen’s housing services. They found themselves in different transitional apartments, like the Missouri Hotel and KIND Place, but nothing permanent.
“All the while, I was trying to find affordable housing to move out of The Kitchen, and I wasn’t able to until these opened up,” Wetzel said.
The family has been living at Beacon Village, a new development by The Kitchen, since January. The 44 homes are equipped with many amenities and also have an income restriction, which allows affordable rent to tenants.
In addition, 20 of the units are specifically for families that were once homeless.
“It’s great. We’ve got cable for the first time in forever, and internet service. And it was furnished with brand new furniture,” Wetzel said.
As part of Wednesday’s ribbon cutting, Attorney General Chris Koster spoke on behalf of the Missouri Housing Developmental Commission.
“Having permanent housing allows a person to become a member of a community. It enables families to put down roots and provide stability for their futures,” Koster said.
Beacon village will also provide access to social workers, job interview workshops, health screenings, and a community center.
Wetzel’s grandchildren were part of a video that secured a grant for the development, which will allow for the building of a playground next to the community center. She says the family is settling in nicely.
“They like the area. The school bus is just down the block. They’ve made friends with some of the area children. We’re all adjusting pretty good,” Wetzel said.
Beacon Village is located on West Helen Street, off of West Chestnut Expressway and Eldon Ave.
