2021 is off to an exciting start for the team at Kim Wilson Housing as they begin moving residents into Kim’s Place, their new congregate housing site.
“It’s a new, exciting adventure for us,” says Wendy Williams, Program Manager.
For the past several months, crews have been working on renovating the building. Kim’s Place is able to house 13 individuals at any one time. The building includes four studio apartments and nine one-bedroom units for residents. Beyond just providing a safe place to live, Kim’s Place is also meant to build a community and be a place for skill-building. The Kim Wilson Housing team is coordinating a number of group programs focusing on mindfulness, art, cooking and independent living skills.
Kim’s Place is meeting a growing need in Wyandotte County: the need for safe, stable and affordable housing. Tenants at Kim’s Place will pay one-third of their income toward rent. Kim Wilson Housing staff will have an office presence on-site to ensure that tenants’ needs are being met.
“Oftentimes when we are working with individuals who are homeless, it’s not about just finding a place for them. It’s also about finding the supports they need to be successful.”
“My biggest goal is to make sure each person remains housed,” says Gloria Cantu, Director of Housing Programs. “Oftentimes when we are working with individuals who are homeless, it’s not about just finding a place for them. It’s also about finding the supports they need to be successful.”
Kim Wilson Housing staff working on-site at Kim’s Place will help to provide a sense of safety and support. Tenants will also be able to access certain services, including case management services through Wyandot Center, without ever having to leave Kim’s Place. Cantu says that is a big benefit for Kim’s Place tenants.
“With scattered site housing, clients have various needs and sometimes they have trouble getting those needs met. Being in congregate housing, it’s easier for them to be supported with what they need.”
The ultimate goal of Kim’s Place is to set up vulnerable individuals for success. There is no limit to how long someone can stay at Kim’s Place. The program is tailored to meet the individual needs of every tenant who comes through the door.
“My ultimate goal is for clients to be housed and be successful in housing,” says Williams. “And I want to restore hope for clients that they can have safe housing.”