DCA & HMFA Break Ground on 17-Unit Supportive Housing Community in Closter
Project to Provide Permanent Housing for Mental Health Consumers

CLOSTER - New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency (HMFA) Executive Director Anthony L. Marchetta today joined Closter Mayor Sophie Heymann and other local officials to break ground on the Van Sciver Supportive Housing Residence at One Railroad Avenue. The HMFA, an affiliate of the Department of Community Affairs (DCA), provided $2.4 million in construction financing from the Special Needs Housing Trust Fund for the project, which will provide service-enriched affordable housing for 16 mental health consumers. Additional funding is coming from the DCA’s State Rental Assistance Program.

"Van Sciver Supportive Housing is a wonderful example of how federal, state, local and private enterprise can work together to build quality affordable supportive housing for those who need it most," said DCA Commissioner Lori Grifa, who is Chair of the HMFA. "We remain committed to working with our partners in the community to create much needed housing in New Jersey for individuals with special needs."

Once completed, the facility will include 17 apartment units. Additionally, a community room, laundry rooms and parking will be available for use by the residents. The building will include sustainable design features such as bamboo flooring, Energy Star appliances, and electrical systems that maximize energy and water conservation.

"We commend the Borough of Closter for recognizing the need for affordable supportive housing. Future residents will now have the opportunity to live in an environment that fosters independence," said HMFA Executive Director Anthony Marchetta. "The HMFA is happy to play a role in getting this project off the ground. It truly advances our goal of making affordable housing a reality for more and more residents of the State."

The project is being developed by Vantage Health Services, Inc., which was established in 2001 as a Community Housing Development Organization. The mission of Vantage is to promote and provide permanent community living arrangements for mental health consumers in Bergen, Hudson, Passaic and Morris Counties. In addition to developing the facility, Vantage will serve as the property manager upon completion.

The Special Needs Housing Trust Fund is administered by the HMFA and provides capital financing to create permanent supportive housing and community residences for individuals with special needs, with priority given to individuals with mental illness. The purpose of the fund is to develop special needs housing and residential opportunities as alternatives to institutionalization or homelessness for those who would benefit from these programs and to ensure the long-term viability of such housing.

For more information on HMFA programs, please call 1-800-NJHOUSE or 609-278-7400, or log on to www.nj-hmfa.com.

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