Historic Homes Revitalized into Veteran Housing
In a remarkable transformation, six historic homes in Prescott, once serving as quarters for medical staff, have been repurposed into affordable housing units for veterans facing homelessness. These homes, part of the Northern Arizona VA Health Care System, now offer a chance for stability and community to veterans in need.
The century-old Victorian-era buildings were skillfully renovated by Gorman and Company, converting them into 23 distinctive one and two-bedroom apartments. “So we were able to convert those six quarters buildings into 23 units of one and two bedroom units, which are absolutely fabulous,” stated Sally Schwenn, Arizona market president for the company.
Named The Post at Fort Whipple, this initiative provides over 100 permanent housing solutions for senior and homeless veterans. The renovation preserved much of the original charm of the buildings. “We even kept the old iron stoves in place,” Schwenn noted. “They don’t work, but they’re super cool and just make everything a lot more homey.”
U.S. Vets in Prescott has teamed up with Gorman and Company to support the veterans living in these homes. Bryan Campbell, the executive director, highlighted the vulnerable position of some residents, with the average age being 58, and some much older. “Could you imagine being Vietnam-era, you serve your country, and then you find yourself in your 80s [or] 90s and you’re experiencing homelessness? I mean that’s just devastating,” he reflected.
The project also includes a newly constructed 80-unit apartment complex nearby, expanding the housing options available to veterans in the area.
This story was produced by KJZZ in Phoenix and published by KNAU as part of the Arizona Public Media Exchange.
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