“It’s a step toward stability for the fastest-growing population of people experiencing homelessness in Colorado.”
Catholic Charities Housing and partners celebrated the grand opening, blessing and ribbon-cutting for the All Saints Apartments on Thursday, October 24. This brand new four-story affordable housing complex, designed specifically for seniors ages 62+ in Denver, sits on the All Saints Parish campus. The much-anticipated project aims to address the critical need for income-restricted housing for older adults in the southwest Denver community.
“Aging adults are our fastest-growing population of people experiencing homelessness,” said Dr. Jamie Rife, Executive Director of Denver’s Housing Stability, at Thursday’s event. “Because of that, there is community will for this project. The faith community here is such an incredible partner in making this happen, and I truly believe it’s going to take all of us to tackle these issues of housing instability and homelessness.”
The All Saints Apartments, which sit at 2595 S. Federal Blvd. in Denver, feature 63 studio and one-bedroom units designed with both efficiency and comfort in mind. Each living space is filled with natural light, offering residents a welcoming atmosphere. The complex also includes on-site management, off-street parking, a game room, a reading room, a fitness center and laundry facilities. There are common areas for socializing, central AC, stainless steel appliances and convenient access to public transportation—all aimed at enhancing the well-being of the residents.
Monsignor Peter Quang Nguyen, pastor of All Saints, has long prayed for housing solutions for older adults because he has seen the growing need from his parishioners and surrounding neighbors.
“It’s exciting to see the ribbon cut on the finished All Saints Apartments, which has been a rewarding five-year partnership, helping to realize Monsignor’s vision and meet a big community need,” said Laura Dougherty, office director at Cushing Terrell Denver, the development’s architects and project managers.
The final speaker of the ribbon-cutting event was the most powerful: 68-year-old Ellen Moya, a Denver native who has struggled with housing instability for years. She grew up just blocks away from the new building and has watched its construction with particular interest.
“I called the phone number and was so excited when I got an appointment to talk with Heather (the lease-up manager) about whether I could qualify for the building,” Ellen told the assembled group. “I even got to take a tour, and I was thrilled because it’s beautiful, and I just hoped I would qualify. When they told me I’d gotten in, I was overjoyed. This location is closer to my doctor’s office, too, where I receive my cancer treatments.”
Ellen will be one of the first tenants of All Saints Apartments and will move into the building in November.
“There are so many of us (seniors) who are homeless. I am so grateful. Now, I just can’t wait to get in there. I thank God,” she said, with tears of relief.
Justin Raddatz, vice president of development for Catholic Charities Housing, emphasized the importance of community collaboration in bringing this project to life.
“The need for senior housing in Denver is critical. With the help of Cushing Terrell, Palace Construction and so many other amazing partners, this project shows what can be accomplished when public, private and faith-based groups collaborate. We hope it’s the first of many.”
Before the ribbon was cut, Archbishop Samuel J. Aquila blessed the new space with holy water. He prayed over the building and all future residents, that they would find comfort in this stage of their lives.
After the final inspection with the City of Denver is completed, the 63 room keys will be ready for new residents.
If you or someone you know may be interested in applying to live at All Saints Apartments, visit https://all-saints-apartments.rentcafewebsite.com or call Catholic Charities Housing’s Heather Fisher at 720-639-7605.
