WEST CHESTER, PA — Chester County officials announced a record $3,270,000 investment to build a new emergency housing facility in West Chester, a move they say will immediately eliminate the county’s family shelter waitlist and ensure no families with children are left sleeping outdoors or in cars.
The funding, awarded by the Chester County Department of Community Development, will support the creation of a 10-unit non-congregate emergency housing facility operated by the Friends Association. County officials said it is the largest single award ever made by the department and is funded entirely through federal and state grant programs.
With the new shelter coming online, Chester County’s total family shelter capacity will rise from 16 to 26 units, removing all families from the emergency housing waitlist.
“Chester County is investing in solutions that are both compassionate and effective,” said Josh Maxwell, chair of the Chester County Board of Commissioners. “By leveraging federal and state funding, we made the largest single housing investment in the history of our Department of Community Development, delivering real and immediate impact for families in need.”
The funding package includes $566,656 from the Community Development Block Grant CARES Act, $124,850 from the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency’s Pennsylvania Housing Affordability and Rehabilitation Enhancement program, and $2,578,494 from the HOME Investment Partnerships Program under the American Rescue Plan.
The project repurposes a vacant building on Paoli Pike in West Chester into non-congregate housing, which provides families with private living spaces and bathrooms, along with shared laundry facilities. The site is located near public transportation and a grocery store and also serves as Friends Association’s primary office, allowing residents direct access to supportive services.
“Families experiencing homelessness deserve dignity, privacy, and stability,” said Marian Moskowitz. “This non-congregate shelter delivers all three, providing fully accessible, private units and the supportive services families need to move forward.”
Eric Roe said the project is especially critical during the winter months. “As temperatures plummet and winter storms roll in, I’m reminded of how important the work of the Friends Association is,” he said. “Because of this new building, 10 families will have shelter and an opportunity to get back on their feet.”
County officials said the project reflects a broader commitment to addressing homelessness locally, noting that family homelessness is not limited to major cities but affects communities across Chester County.
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