Michael Devenere, 54, says his unit in the Danmor Apartments may be small, but “this is home.”
HOUSING
Uneasy Living Low-income and month-to-month tenants often face challenges with securing stable housing BY JACOB JONES
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n unexpected and unexplained letter threatened to uproot Michael Devenere’s entire life. After nearly four years of living in the Danmor Apartments in downtown Spokane, he came home last week to find a “Notice to Terminate Tenancy.” “If you do not surrender possession of these premises on or before the date set forth,” the letter states, “judicial proceedings will be instituted for your eviction.” Devenere, 54, felt betrayed. He takes good care of his
unit and keeps to himself. He often pays his rent three months in advance. The letter, delivered July 8, gave him just 22 days to move out. All 14 of his neighbors received the same notice, their letters littering the front entryway. With many on Social Security, veterans benefits or other fixed incomes, Devenere says they have few options for affordable housing in downtown. “To get kicked out without any explanation,” he says,
JACOB JONES PHOTO
at a loss. “This is my home.” A couple days later, the Danmor building owners reversed their decision and rescinded the eviction orders. But Devenere says the incident highlights the insecurity of local low-income housing and the limited protections for tenants living on month-to-month rental agreements. “Most of us have been here for a long time,” he says, “because we have nowhere else to go.”
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he Danmor Apartments on Third Avenue has stood for 106 years. New blue paint covers the hallways, but behind several doors sit damaged and neglected units. Of the 36 total units, many have become uninhabitable. Residents and building managers acknowledge problems with gang activity, drugs or vandalism over the years. But many respectful tenants also call the building home. Bob Peeler, with SNAP Homeless Services, says lowincome buildings provide important transitional housing and affordable living space for people on fixed benefits or pensions. ...continued on next page
JULY 18, 2013 INLANDER 13