Published on:
Imagine Housing, an award-winning, nonprofit affordable housing developer, will hold its 27th annual gala and auction at Bellevue’s Meydenbauer Center on Saturday, March 30.
Since 1987, the public service organization has built more than 1,400 low-income apartment communities for families, youth, veterans and seniors in East King County. In addition to safe, permanent homes, Imagine Housing offers several supportive services programs designed to create long-term stability, security, and welcoming communities.
Imagine Housing communities are located in Bellevue, Issaquah, Kirkland, Mercer Island, Redmond and Sammamish. Last year, it celebrated the opening of Athene, located in the Totem Lake neighborhood of Kirkland. That sustainably-built community encompasses 91 studio, 1- and 2-bedroom apartments for low-income seniors. Twenty apartments are reserved for seniors exiting homelessness.
There were 1,543 homeless students in East King County in the 2015-2016 school year, a 9.8 increase from 2014-2015. Homelessness has particularly adverse effects on children and youth, including hunger, poor physical and mental health, and missed educational opportunities, according to studies by various providers of low income housing.
Research cited by the National Low Income Housing Coalition indicates a strong correlation between housing assistance for children and their economic outcome as an adult. A child’s neighborhood and home life have a significant impact on their performance in school. Children in low income households who live in affordable housing score better on cognitive development tests than those growing up in households with unaffordable rents.
Coalition research also shows building 100 affordable rental homes generates $11.7 million in local income, $2.2 million in taxes and other revenue for local governments, and 161 local jobs in the first year alone.
More than 450 community members and leaders from the Puget Sound region are expected for the Imagine Gala & Auction. This year’s Presenting Hope Sponsor is JPMorgan Chase & Co. Tickets and sponsorship options are online or available by calling 425-576-5190.
