A Lane County nonprofit, Sponsors Inc., is set to begin construction in 2026 on a new 52-unit affordable housing development named "The Coleman." This project aims to provide stable housing for individuals with criminal convictions, who often face significant barriers to renting traditional apartments. The development is a collaborative effort with Homes for Good and is supported by Lane County, which provided the land.
Key Takeaways
- Sponsors Inc. plans to build "The Coleman," a 52-unit affordable housing development.
- The project targets individuals with criminal convictions who struggle to find housing.
- Construction is slated to begin in 2026, with completion expected in 2027.
- The estimated cost of the project is approximately $22 million.
Addressing a Critical Need
The initiative comes at a time of significant housing shortages in Eugene and Lane County, exacerbating the challenges faced by those with criminal records. Annie Herz, executive director of Sponsors Inc., highlighted the foundational issue of insufficient housing, stating that conviction histories create "additional barriers to finding housing to the point where many people end up without any housing." The project directly addresses this by targeting individuals exiting prison who would otherwise be homeless.
Project Details and Funding
"The Coleman" will be located at the intersection of Highway 99 and Roosevelt Boulevard in Eugene, across from Sponsors’ existing transitional housing development, Roosevelt Crossing campus. The estimated cost for the development is around $22 million. Funding secured includes nearly $13.7 million from Oregon Housing and Community Services’ Local Innovation and Fast Track (LIFT) program, a $1 million grant from the Federal Home Loan Bank, and $250,000 from Sponsors Inc.
Building on Past Success
This project builds upon Sponsors Inc.’s established work in supporting individuals re-entering the community after incarceration. The organization currently manages approximately 120 units of long-term housing. "The Coleman" will serve individuals transitioning from Sponsors’ transitional housing program, which typically lasts between 60 and 120 days. Sponsors and Homes for Good have a history of successful collaboration, including the "Oaks at 14th" project, a 54-unit development for formerly incarcerated individuals.
Honoring a Legacy of Advocacy
The development is named in honor of the late Dr. Edwin and Charmaine Coleman, respected figures in the Eugene Black community and advocates for civil rights and justice reform. Dr. Coleman was a founding board member of Sponsors Inc., and he and his wife dedicated over five decades to supporting the organization’s mission.
Eligibility and Support Services
Eligibility for "The Coleman" will be open to individuals earning 60% or less of the area median income, with the rental prices yet to be determined. The units are designed for single individuals and will not accommodate children. Importantly, no convictions, including sex offenses, will be a disqualifier for residency. Residents will have access to on-site staff providing support for employment, healthcare, addiction treatment, and other essential needs.
Sources
- Nonprofit group plans housing for people with criminal convictions, Lookout Eugene-Springfield.
