Construction has officially begun on True North Apartments, a new 70-unit affordable and supportive housing development in Rochester, New York, as announced today by the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA) and New York Homes and Community Renewal (HCR). The $38 million project will provide housing for low-income residents, including 35 supportive units for individuals and families, particularly those who have experienced homelessness. The development also features a wellness clinic to offer essential health services.

Barbara C. Guinn, Commissioner of OTDA, stated, “The Homeless Housing and Assistance Program's investment in True North Apartments will provide Monroe County residents, including older adults, individuals, and families who have experienced homelessness, with safe, affordable apartments and easy access to support services that will help them thrive. Thank you to Governor Hochul for making increasing the supply of permanent supportive housing options a priority in New York State and to our state and local partners for their hard work and commitment to developing this much-needed project.”

RuthAnne Visnauskas, Commissioner of HCR, remarked, “True North Apartments is a critical step forward in addressing the housing needs of vulnerable populations in Rochester. This transformative project will not only provide 70 affordable homes, but also offer a wellness clinic and essential supportive services to those who have experienced homelessness, giving them the stability and resources they need to thrive. The partnership between DePaul Properties, the city of Rochester, and state agencies demonstrates the power of collaboration in achieving our shared goal of creating a more inclusive, supportive housing environment. We remain committed to expanding access to affordable housing across New York State, ensuring that every New Yorker has a place to call home.”

The development, led by DePaul Properties, Inc., includes two residential buildings across separate sites. The supportive services for residents will be provided by DePaul Community Services, Inc. and Person Centered Housing Options (PCHO), offering programs such as life skills training and healthcare assistance. A wellness clinic, operated by the Finger Lakes Area Counseling and Recovery Agency (FLACRA), will offer mental health and substance use counseling, recovery groups, and medication-assisted treatment.

True North Apartments will serve households earning between 30% and 80% of the Area Median Income, and residents will benefit from amenities such as community rooms, computer labs, lounges, and on-site staff offices. The project is part of a broader collaborative effort that includes the Rochester Interfaith Development Corporation, FLACRA, and PCHO, which supports the city's Faith in Action initiative aimed at developing affordable housing.

The project’s capital funding includes $5.5 million from the OTDA's Homeless Housing and Assistance Program, $30 million from HCR, and a $750,000 HOME grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development through the City of Rochester. In addition, HCR’s investment includes $10.5 million in subsidy and Low-Income Housing Tax Credits that will generate $19.4 million in equity.

State Senator Samra G. Brouk commented, “I am grateful to Governor Hochul for investing in low-income housing, including units for older adults, individuals, and families experiencing homelessness in Rochester. Hundreds of individuals are currently experiencing homelessness in our city — the True North Apartments are an example of how we can uplift marginalized individuals by offering the resources they need for reintegration, wellness, and success.”

Monroe County Executive Adam J. Bello expressed his appreciation, saying, “We are grateful for Governor Hochul's commitment to supportive and affordable housing in Monroe County as evidenced by this investment in the True North housing project. This will be an important addition to the housing options we have available for people with limited incomes, and the inclusion of the on-site wellness clinic and support services will mean that residents will have the help they need to stay safe, healthy and housed.”

Rochester Mayor Malik Evans emphasized the collaborative effort, saying, “This project is a symbol of what we can achieve when our city, county, state, and community partners unite with a shared mission to provide stable, affordable, and supportive housing. Thanks to New York State, DePaul, and our many public and private partners, we are building a Rochester where every resident has the opportunity to thrive, creating neighborhoods of pride and possibility.”

DePaul President Mark H. Fuller shared, “DePaul looks forward to expanding our ability to change lives with stable housing in Monroe County. We wish to thank Governor Hochul, New York State, and all of our community partners and funders for providing the funding and support in making the True North Apartments a reality.”

Governor Hochul’s commitment to addressing the state’s housing crisis is highlighted through her FY25 Enacted Budget, which includes measures to boost the housing supply in New York, especially for vulnerable populations. The FY23 Enacted Budget also set a target to create or preserve 100,000 affordable homes statewide, with 10,000 designated for vulnerable populations, as part of a larger five-year, $25 billion Housing Plan. Through these efforts, more than 50,000 homes have already been created or preserved.

The Governor’s focus on expanding affordable housing options and increasing support for renters and homeowners continues through initiatives like the Pro-Housing Community Program, which has certified over 230 communities, including Rochester, to access discretionary funding.