Warren
Des Moines, IA
Two years ago, Warren was in a much different situation. He moved to Des Moines from Chicago in hopes of changing his life, leaving behind a time of madness and trouble. But soon after his arrival, he relapsed and found himself homeless. He made his way to Bethel Mission men’s shelter where he was eventually given an ultimatum to join their life recovery program. After completing the program, he began employment and was offered an opportunity to live at Brickstones at Riverbend. Developed by Anawim Housing, Brickstones at Riverbend is a multifamily property for persons 55 and over.
Warren is very aware that the dark side of living is still alive and truly appreciates the chances he’s been given.
“I’m grateful for what I have, and I have to be conscious that it’s not just me that made it possible. I have to think of more than just myself, it comes with responsibility.”
He considers it a blessing to be able to live here. On a recent afternoon, Warren was sitting quietly in his living room, looking at his apartment, his brand-new kitchen, and he was in awe, “It hit me, wow, this is all yours.”
Anawim Housing, a non-profit organization founded in 1987, develops and manages affordable housing in the state of Iowa. In addition, Anawim provides several programs and services for their residents to ensure their success.
Brickstones at Riverbend was made possible through the use of the Low Income Housing Tax Credit Program. In addition to the tax credit equity, this development received financing from Polk County Housing Trust Fund ($130,000), Iowa Workforce Housing Tax Credit Proceeds (in the amount of $97,183), Anawim Housing General Partner Contribution ($142,581) and benefited from a ten year property tax abatement mortgage ($208,249).
