On Monday, Senator Bernie Sanders joined community members, representatives of VHFA, and other public and private funders to celebrate the completion of Vergennes Senior Housing.
Senator Sanders described the 25-unit project as "exactly the kind of housing we should be building- not only does it meet the significant need for quality and affordable senior housing, but it does it in a very energy efficient manner. Also, this project is much more than housing. It brings the elderly of the entire
community together in their own senior center and enables them to continue to participate actively in the life of the community."
Sanders also noted that there will be twice weekly senior luncheons at the site, and the local Meals-on-Wheels program. The building includes a large front porch, community gardens, lobby with fireplace, community room, nurse room, and elevator. Vergennes Senior Housing is located on Armory Lane adjacent to a shopping center and within walking distance to the downtown.
The Addison County Community Trust and Housing Vermont partnered to develop this innovative project. Funding was provided through the combined efforts of People’s United Bank, HUD, VHFA, Vermont Housing Conservation Board, the City of Vergennes (Vermont Community Development Program loan), and Efficiency Vermont.
Although all of the apartments in the building have been leased, there is a waiting list for interested seniors. Contact the Addison County Community Trust at (802) 877-2626 or visit their web page at www.addisontrust.org.
Photos by Cindy Reid.