Programs
Washington Beech is undergoing a comprehensive redevelopment through the federal HOPE VI program. HOPE VI is about more than just building new housing. It’s about promoting the well-being of the community and facilitating the upward mobility of individuals and families who live in the community. The Washington Beech HOPE VI program encompasses several key initiatives toward these goals:
Resident Services
In addition to providing temporary relocation services and other direct support throughout the disruptive process of redevelopment, the resident services program at Washington Beech offers coordinated case management to refer residents to outside organizations offering services and opportunities in the broader community. Many organizations have also established new programs, or have strengthened existing programs, onsite at Washington Beech (see Contacts).
Employment
A central goal of the HOPE VI program is to assist residents with employment. Case managers provide job search support and make critical referrals to skills training programs. The HOPE VI redevelopment itself offers a valuable opportunity for residents to secure well-paying jobs, particularly construction industry jobs. The Washington Beech redevelopment has set ambitious goals for resident hiring that are being met through a coordinated effort among the general contractor, CWC Builders, its subcontractors, and the resident services team.
Homeownership
For residents whose goals include homeownership, the HOPE VI program offers assistance in the form of subordinate loans of up to $20,000 each toward the purchase of a home. The Washington Beech “Loan-to-Purchaser” program is administered by Neighborhood of Affordable Housing, Inc. (NOAH), a local community development corporation that provides comprehensive support to first-time homebuyers.
Healthy Homes/Smoke-Free Housing
The Boston Housing Authority is a leader among public housing agencies in promoting “healthy homes” initiatives such as integrated pest management and carpet-free housing for families coping with asthma. At Washington Beech, residents have challenged the BHA and its development partners to set even higher goals, particularly in the area of smoke-free housing. Residents have demonstrated tremendous support for smoke-free housing. A survey of 151 Washington Beech residents showed that 85% want smoke-free housing at the new development. Even among smokers, there is broad recognition of the benefits of smoke-free housing for the Washington Beech community as a whole.
With Every Heartbeat is Life
Washington Beech residents are implementing the “With Every Heartbeat is Life” health education program developed by the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. WEHL uses community health workers, residents from the community who are trained in the WEHL curriculum, in order to educate their neighbors about heart health, and to organize community activities to promote healthy lifestyles.