Affordable Housing Facility to Help 21 Formerly Homeless Families; Residence Named After Past Chair of the NYC Housing Authority

Bronx, NY, July 12, 2005—Albert Walsh Apartments, a 21-unit affordable housing facility developed by VIP Community Services, officially opened today with a ribbon-cutting ceremony in the Morrisania section of the Bronx.

Named after the late Albert Walsh, former Chair of the New York City Housing Authority and Administrator of the Housing Development Administration, as well as VIP attorney and advisor, this facility specifically houses formerly homeless families. It is the third supportive housing facility developed by VIP in the Bronx and the first project in New York City named in memory of Albert Walsh.

"The Albert Walsh Apartments will help formerly homeless families help themselves," said Sandra Ruiz Butter, president of VIP Community Services. "It is so appropriate that we are naming this residence after Albert Walsh. He was a true champion of creating affordable housing opportunities and understood that the foundation for a successful future begins with a safe and stable place to call home."

Located on Rev. Polite Avenue, the Albert Walsh Apartments provides critical on-site services including vocational counseling, and referrals for education, employment, health, mental health and parenting skills services. In addition, a case manager from VIP's Tenant Services Department will be on site.

Each unit will include two bedrooms, ample closet space and a full kitchen. The facility also will include a garden and playground area, computer room with six stations and a large indoor community room.

Funding for the Albert Walsh Apartments was provided by the New York State Homeless Housing Assistance Program, along with low income housing tax credits from the New York State Department of Housing and Community Renewal. The Enterprise Social Investment Corporation (ESIC) syndicated this project. The New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development was instrumental in identifying the pool of eligible families which met the qualifications necessary for this program. "The Albert Walsh Apartments exemplify the re-birth of this neighborhood and VIP's success in empowering families in need," said Joan Hoover, Deputy Commissioner for the State Division of Housing and Community Renewal. "Through Governor Pataki's leadership, New York State provided critical support for this project. We are excited that these twenty-one families have renewed hope today."

"The Albert Walsh Apartments will help change so many lives for the better," said Robert Doar, Commissioner of the State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance. "Thanks to support from Governor Pataki and organizations like VIP Community Services, New York State continues to be an innovative leader in providing assistance to homeless families."

Albert Walsh was a major figure in the field of government assisted housing as it developed in New York City. He served as Chair of the New York City Housing Authority and later, under Mayor Lindsay, was Administrator for the Housing Development Administration, as well as the city's development efforts using Mitchell-Lama and HUD programs. Upon his departure from City government, Walsh became the head of a national builders organization and later a partner in the law firm of Seward & Kissel. In that capacity, he began a relationship with VIP, and served as VIP's corporate attorney offering counsel for 12 years until his death in 2004.

"Our family is honored to be part of VIP's celebration," said Nan Walsh, Mr. Walsh's wife. "This residence is a fitting testament to Albert's dedication and commitment to housing in New York City."

"This building would not have been possible without the support of the State and City and our other partners. We are extremely thankful and look forward to continue providing housing opportunities and supportive services for so many New Yorkers in need," added Ruiz Butter.

About VIP Community Services
Founded in 1974, VIP Community Services (vipservices.org) has grown and evolved into a comprehensive, community based organization providing substance abuse treatment, HIV prevention and care, and workforce development. VIP's housing work is a component of the organization's commitment to changing lives and transforming the community. VIP's service programs offer help to more than 5,000 persons a year. Through a broad range of integrated services, VIP helps people triumph over their addictions and move from dependency to recovery. VIP's portfolio now includes more than 500 units of affordable and rental housing.

Back to News page