A LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT
The past year, Anawim Housing has had the opportunity to assess and act on opportunities to improve our operations and service delivery model, ensuring we are providing housing that meets the needs of our current and future tenants. We have updated our tenant selection plan to be more inclusive of potential renters, we have invested in training for our staff, and we continue to advocate within the community on issues facing people who experience homelessness. We continue to look for ways to improve and to meet needs and fill gaps within the community.
I have had the privilege of meeting with many longtime supporters and previous staff of Anawim Housing, many who worked alongside Sister Stella in the formative years of the organization. These meetings have helped me hear firsthand the origins of the mission of Anawim and evaluate as a benchmark where we stand today. Sister Stella believed wholeheartedly in the inherent dignity of the individual and their right to safe and affordable housing. She believed in investing in people and supporting them to become the best version of themselves. She was a fierce advocate for people who had faced unbearable adversity and
was known to be spicy in her pursuit of justice for people in systems of inequity.
I am very proud that the Anawim of today reflects those same values of Sister Stella and earlier volunteers and staff. I see daily the passion and expertise Anawim staff bring to their work, whether that be in accounting, property management and maintenance, or our permanent supportive housing programs.
The golden thread is the belief that housing is foundational to the success of people realizing their potential. This is true for all.
I have heard from stakeholders, elected officials and community members that they value the critical services Anawim provides within our community. We look forward to the opening of Monarch Apartments in late 2024. This project will serve 40 individuals or couples leaving homelessness and will serve our community in an impactful way. Monarch Apartments isn’t just a new building, but a symbol of hope and a tangible commitment to addressing homelessness in our community. This initiative, like all our projects, is a testament to our dedication to providing housing solutions that offer stability and dignity to those in need.
As we navigate through the challenges and opportunities of the coming year, we are committed to fostering partnerships and engaging with the community to create sustainable solutions. Our work would not be possible without the unwavering support of our donors, volunteers, and community partners. We are also committed to amplifying our advocacy efforts to address systemic issues contributing to homelessness and housing insecurity.
In closing, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has been a part of the Anawim Housing journey. Your support, whether through time, resources, or advocacy, has been invaluable. Together, we are making a difference in the lives of many, and we remain steadfast in our mission to provide safe, affordable, and supportive housing to our community.
CYNTHIA LATCHAM Executive Director / Anawim Housing
2024 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
MATT CALLANAN
Board Chair
Belin McCormick
DAN MANNING
Vice Chair
Lillis O’Malley Olson Manning
Pose Templeman LLP
CLAUDETTE MCDONALD
Former Chair
Family Communications
Associates Inc.
BETSY HAPPE
Secretary/Treasurer
Principal Financial Group
CHRISTINE COMITO
Fleet Feet Sports
MARILYN CARROLL
Mercy Medical Rehab (Ret.)
BOB DOUGLAS
Davis Brown Law Firm
CECELIA KENT
Community Volunteer
KRISTA MCCALLEY
ThoughtSuite Inc.
SHERRY PERKINS
Delta Dental of Iowa
DEB THARNISH
Davis Brown Law Firm
KENDALL WATKINS
Kendall R. Watkins, P.C.
CYNTHIA LATCHAM
President, Anawim Housing
INNOVATION
We seek continuous creative improvement to transform complex matters into opportunities and pathways forward. We utilize best practices and evidence-based practices to perform our work effectively and efficiently.
We value the inherent dignity and agency of all persons and strive to exemplify integrity, empathy and ethical behavior in all that we do.
INTENTIONALITY
We commit to intentional, diverse and inclusive representation of individuals and their lived experiences in our words, actions and company culture.
We put people first by prioritizing care and space for learning. We strive to challenge, develop and recognize talented people within our organization in order to attract and retain the professionals needed to ensure our ongoing success.
MISSION
Anawim Housing develops stable homes and strengthens people and communities
VISION
Anawim Housing will diversify our business model nationally to build up our communities locally by providing a continuum of housing solutions
AFFORDABLE AND MARKET RATE HOUSING
STAR LOFTS
In 2023, Anawim Housing and Cutler Development broke ground on Iowa’s first Zero Carbon Certified building: The Star Lofts. Anawim and Cutler are co-developing the project which utilizes mass timber production.
The Star Lofts has received widespread support for its sustainable building model and bringing critical affordable housing to Ingersoll Avenue in Des Moines.
673 housing units across Iowa are managed or owned by Allterra and Anawim Housing. Of that number 505 are Anawim owned
20
Total number of affordable housing units consisting of efficiency, one and two bedroom apartments.
The project replaces an old Star Gas Station, and lends to the continued revitalization of the Ingersoll Neighborhood.
4,612
Total maintenance work order requests were serviced in 2023
We work to provide housing for all–because housing is a human right. From the most vulnerable in our community to those who simply need an affordable, safe place for their family to call home–we are there.
Our Allterra Property Solutions team has over 100 years combined industry experience in property management, property development and consulting services. Anawim Housing continues to be a leader in affordable housing throughout Iowa, and Allterra manages our affordable and market rate properties.
STAR LOFTS
STATEWIDE IMPACT
BY THE NUMBERS BY THE NUMBERS
SIOUX CITY
Aberdeen Apartments: 46 COUNCIL BLUFFS
Anawim-owned a ordable housing projects and permanent supportive housing programs across Iowa
RAPIDS Ashton Flats: 52
Permanent Supportive Housing and TBRA Program: 27
Apartments: 52
“ANAWIM HAS GIVEN ME SO MUCH,” HE SAYS, “HAVING A HOME FEELS GOOD –THE PRIVACY AND PEACE AFTER TIME IN THE SHELTER AND ON THE STREETS IS A RELIEF.”
- BENJAMIN
STATEWIDE IMPACT
BY THE NUMBERS BY THE NUMBERS
of people in Permanent Supportive Housing have a qualifying disability - defined as a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities.
Anawim Housing is working to end homelessness in Polk County. We ensure we are serving the most vulnerable as all who enter our program are referred directly to Anawim from Centralized Intake with Primary Healthcare.
of households we serve remain stably housed
individuals were served in our Permanent Supportive Housing programs in 2023. Of that number, 290 are adults and 107 are children under the age of 18.
100% 94% 397 51
eviction prevention meetings. These are meetings with program participants designed to create plans for supporting housing stability.
100%
of individuals in Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) have experienced homelessness and have been prioritized for a PSH intervention. Most are chronically homeless as defined by HUD as those who have experienced homelessness for a minimum of 12 months and who sleep in a place not meant for human habitation.
BENJAMIN’S STORY
Benjamin’s love for cars began at the age of eight when his family encouraged him to join in as they purchased and worked on vehicles in their backyard. This early passion led him to technical school, where he trained to become an automotive and diesel mechanic.
Benjamin’s enthusiasm for all things automotive has only grown over the years. Just ask him about the cars he has owned or the trucks he has serviced, and his face will light up with joy.
Despite the fond memories of his childhood, Benjamin acknowledges there was hardship. “This story isn’t a good story,” he reflects, “there was a lot of addiction around me.” These hardships ultimately led to two years of homelessness. Before finding stability with Anawim’s Permanent Supportive Housing program, Benjamin was caught in a cycle of emergency shelters and living on the streets. After losing his job and dealing with a significant knee injury, he could no longer afford his rent.
Moving from homelessness to permanent housing has given Benjamin the stability he needs to reclaim his life and pursue his dreams. With a safe place to call home, he has been able to address his health issues, schedule a long-overdue knee surgery, and apply for disability benefits.
He meets regularly with his Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor to discuss how to meet his career goals with his physical limitations.
ReNew Crew is a supportive employment social enterprise designed to immediately place program participants into employment opportunities with few barriers. It mirrors the Housing First and harm reduction practices used by Anawim Housing agency-wide. Individuals who have a desire to work do not have to advance through a series of classes or training programs. They are placed directly into the workforce and are supported in remaining employed. Conflicts and employment struggles are viewed as teaching and training moments. Supervisors model workplace best practices and are available to offer support through mental health or substance use relapses.
The average number of jobs completed by ReNew Crew per month. Jobs often include grounds keeping, cleaning of units for unit turns, painting, and light maintenance.
Total number of jobs completed between January 2023 and January 2024
“You make a little bit of money, but also you get to help people that are less fortunate. They caught me at a time when I didn’t have a lot. They helped me with a house and now work for them. Honestly, I’m one of those people that like to help other people.” -Rodolfo Quintana, ReNew Crew member.
THE MONARCH APARTMENTS:
The Monarch Apartments is the first project of its kind in the state of Iowa–the conversion of a former hotel into Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) for those experiencing homelessness. Anawim Housing is pioneering the project. Construction is underway and expected to be complete by the end of 2024.
All of the potential tenants of the project will be referred through Centralized Intake located at Primary Health Care. Through utilization of Centralized Intake, it is our intention to avoid “screening out” of potential tenants due to lack of income, criminal history or history of substance use. Centralized Intake, when correctly applied, will ensure the most vulnerable are served first and that people are denied services in only rare occurrences. Centralized Intake mitigates disparity and equity issues, ensures the project runs at capacity and operates under a harm reduction and trauma informed model.
On-site, we will provide 24-hour staff and peer support services. On-site supportive services will be voluntary and will emphasize housing stability and person centered case management. Participants will sign a lease, and all parties will be expected to follow Iowa Landlord and Tenant laws.
40
The total number of one-bedroom and efficiency apartments that will be created –providing permanent supporting housing for those who are experiencing homelessness. The Monarch Apartments – located at 4845 Merle Hay Road
COUNCIL BLUFFS: ANAWIM EXPANDS PERMANENT SUPPORTIVE HOUSING
Anawim was awarded a grant from the Iowa West Foundation which allows for the expansion of Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) access and resources to residents in Council Bluffs, Iowa.
Anawim is working in partnership with street outreach and emergency shelters along with community partners in Council Bluffs to support those experiencing homelessness. In addition to our PSH program, we received funding through Iowa Finance Authority’s HOME program to fund a Tenant Based Rental Assistance Program in Council Bluffs, which helps individuals over the course of a two-year period secure housing, and regain employment and financial stability.
Working together with other communities to help serve those in need is Anawim’s mission in action.
IN 2023:
Council Bluffs Permanent Supportive Housing Units/Households: 24
Council Bluffs Tenant Based Rental Assistance Units/Households: 24
While case management services are voluntary, Anawim Housing is pleased to report that 100% of the households served in Council Bluffs actively participate in our case management program. This demonstrates the commitment of our participants to actively engage in their journey towards stability.
We are grateful for our donors who invest in Anawim Housing’s important work. Here are some ways you can give to help support Anawim Housing today:
Donate online to Anawim Housing at: anawimhousing.org
Annual Fund:
INVEST OTHER WONDERFUL WAYS TO GIVE
The Annual Fund provides the most necessary and critical resources needed to support our individuals and families through programming and services all year long.
We Empower Families:
We Empower Families members are people of compassion who support Anawim Housing’s mission by pledging at a giving level. Their donation and membership directly supports those moving into housing and the life-changing programs and services we provide.
We Empower Families Giving Levels:
$2500+ Patron
$1000 - $2499 Leader
$500 - $999 Founder
$250 - $499 Advocate
$100 - $249 Nurturer
Learn more about these on our website:
• Gift of Stock
• IRAS
• Endow Iowa Fund
• Planned Giving –Gifts for the Future
• Donor Advised Fund Grants
• Target Gift Registry –Help us ready a home!
If you are interested in choosing to make a gift for the future, we are here to help.
Contact:
Kourtney Kirkpatrick Director of Advancement kkirkpatrick@anawimhousing.org
Our main office: 515-244-8308
Attend our annual event!
We Empower Families: Home is Everything Event: Thursday, November 14, at the Des Moines Heritage Center
Learn more about these and other upcoming events at: www.anawimhousing.org
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STELLA Sister
Anawim Housing’s journey began in 1987 under the watchful eye of Mercy Sister Estella “Stella” Marie Neill, RSM. As anyone who met Sister Stella can attest she was a fierce advocate for everyone’s right to housing regardless of circumstance. Known in equal parts for her innate kindness as well as her force of will and drive to guide others towards the goal of better communities for all. She stood as a testament to just for much can be achieved if one person sets their mind to something.
Born on November 11th, 1942 in Omaha, Nebraska, Sister Stella began her ministry at just 17 years-old and spent much of her early career working with children and the elderly as teacher, care-giver, and religious guide. Upon moving back to Des Moines in 1980 she began focusing her efforts into management, most specifically developing policies and programs both for those she served as well as within the diocese where she worked. The drive to improve the systems around her led to the founding of Anawim housing with the goal of providing “safe affordable housing to low income families, thus enabling these families to stabilize their lives”, as she detailed through the original Anawim Housing newsletters. For Sister Stella helping the unhoused was about more than just providing a place for people to stay; it was about strengthening communities, connecting others, and changing people’s perceptions on houseless people as a whole, by focusing on our similarities rather than our differences of circumstance.
In part Sister Stella’s passion was rooted in her own childhood and family history. Her grandmother was widowed when all four of her children were still minors, left without resources she was
forced to turn to the help of orphanages.
Nine years later at the age of 14, Sister Stella’s mother married and would go on to have ten children and due to a lack of funds
and resources she too would have to release her five youngest children to the state, Sister Stella included. Years later when Sister Stella was able to unite with her mother again she asked “Why?” Her mother’s answer was an echo of what has been said by countless Anawim families, she didn’t know what to do or who could help her and there was no way for her to be able to care for them. This problem is all too common for low-income families and has persisted from the first Anawim owned duplex in 1989, to the 505 housing units owned by Anawim today.
This personal connection was not going to propel Anawim forward by itself however. Sister Stella worked hard to establish an organization supported by local politicians and business leaders, something she could only do by displaying the benefits that her work would have on the community at large. She taught herself the ins and outs of local housing policies and the finances behind building a home versus refurbishing an existing building (something she preferred to do anyways in her secondary effort to maintain the histories of the neighborhoods in which she worked). She was tenacious in her goals and if she wanted your help in doing so she would not stop until you had been convinced to join her. This spirit of ingenuity is what allowed her to bring Anawim to such early success especially in a time where the housing first model was only just beginning to be recognized. Her undaunted attitude also lead to the great communal recognition she received, be it in awarded grants from government agencies, donations both monetary and through volunteer labor on Anawim’s varying
housing projects, or through local awards such as the McCauley Institute Courage in Community Award in 1995, or the 2006 Dynamic Woman Award.
It is this spirit that we continue to try and emulate at Anawim housing today. Though Sister Stella stepped down as executive director of Anawim in 2010, and sadly died later that same year she left an incredible legacy behind. At Anawim today we still follow those core principles she laid out. We strive to provide safe and affordable housing for all, but we also push her vision forward expanding support services we are able to provide to those in our Permanent Supportive Housing programs for those leaving homelessness, purchasing new properties as well as continuing to maintain and refurbish historic properties within our community. Unfortunately one problem that plagued both Sister Stella from Anawim’s inception to today is that the need continues to outpace what we are able to provide. As we move forward in 2024 and look towards the future Anawim’s goal remains a clear vision of what it was when Sister Stella took on the first home, the same vision that lead her to donate her own home for Anawim families in need, that all people deserve a safe place to live and we as a community must help to provide it to them. Said best in Sister Stella’s own words from the fall 1995 newsletter, “I believe those of us who have privilege also have a responsibility to those who do not. Every person has a right to a place to live. We who are privileged by birth or circumstance, have the obligation to take the power we have to make that right a reality for every person.”
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