“This is like a dream come true.”
This is how Daryl, a formerly homeless veteran in St. Louis, felt about his brand-new apartment back in 2014. Whether staying in a shelter as Daryl had recently been, couch-surfing, or even living unhoused—veterans now had a safe and secure home of their own thanks to Freedom Place, the new supportive housing community at 4011 Delmar.
Hard to believe it has been ten years.
On the afternoon of September 16th, residents, staff and partners gathered for a celebration in recognition of this community’s landmark 10th birthday. The community room was decorated with balloons and ribbon while tables featured centerpieces. Entertainment was provided by the new, large screen television that played music and movies for entertainment. Attendees also enjoyed a catered barbecue buffet with drinks and desserts.
“I’ve lived here right at about two years,” said David as he sat at a table with friends. “I love the people here.” Another resident, Haiti, having just recently moved into the community shared his initial impressions—and goals. “It’s so nice. I really like the apartment. And now I can focus on getting myself and my life where I need to be.”
Freedom Place was created to help Veterans who are exiting homelessness gain stable housing and receive the services and support they might need to thrive. When it was opened in the Fall of 2014 by the Vecino Group, services partner St Patrick Center/Project HERO and property management partner Cohen-Esrey, it welcomed 60 veterans exiting homelessness. Having served hundreds of residents throughout its ten years, it has been a haven for veterans in the St Louis area. But it also holds a special place within the history of the Vecino Group: it was the company’s very first development outside of its hometown of Springfield, Missouri.
“I always love visiting here—the residents are the best, and it is just amazing how beautiful the building is.” said Vecino Group Asset Manager Lisa Combs. “We are fortunate to have Jamina here as our property manager. She gets the Vecino mission, plus has lots of ideas for the property and residents.”
Vecino Group Director of Supportive Services Heather Bradley-Geary agrees. “It’s so special here. Our staff and partners are great—and our veterans here have created a wonderful community. It’s fantastic.”
With a mission to deliver development for the greater good where ever there is a need, Vecino has gone on to create multiple affordable and permanent supportive communities serving more than a dozen states.
As part of this growth, Freedom Place inspired the Vecino Group’s veteran-focused brand: Freedom Springs. There is one in Colorado Springs, CO and another currently underway in Albany, NY.
Going back to more of Daryl’s thoughts from ten years ago, little did any of us realize how prophetic his words would be…
“I think this should be expanded—throughout every city whereever there is homelessness. And not just for veterans, but for all.”
