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By Beverly Ventriss –
As The Salvation Army celebrated the dedication of its new Silvercrest residence in Pasadena, the 75-unit apartment building opened with a waiting list of more than 100 people. The Silvercrest is the 10th federally assisted senior housing complex in Pasadena, but only the second residence to provide federal housing assistance directly to seniors, in addition to subsidizing construction.
Commissioner Peter H. Chang gave the dedicatory address to over 170 seniors and supporters. One tenant who moved from another Pasadena apartment complex described the Silvercrest as, “Much less expensive and (more) comfortable,” adding that the building is conveniently located near many shops and banks. Program activities will also be offered to seniors, including crafts, monthly birthday parties, holiday programs and outings.
“For senior citizens who need affordable housing on a long-term basis, the Army enables seniors of modest means to live independently in an attractive, safe environment,” stated Divisional Commander, Lt. Col. Alfred R. Van Cleef.
Funded at a cost of $9 million by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, The Salvation Army and the city of Pasadena, the Silvercrest provides federal housing assistance to people 62 and older whose gross annual income does not exceed $17,950. Residents pay 30 percent of their income in rent.
“There is a tremendous need for low-income senior housing,” said Pat Knudsen, executive director of the Pasadena Senior Center. She added seniors have a hard time finding jobs. “They need their housing problems solved first.”
The Southern California Division operates six Silvercrest residences in Los Angeles, Pasadena, Redondo Beach, Santa Fe Springs, Santa Monica and Ventura.
