Thrive International to Bring Affordable Housing to Spokane
The upcoming development at 6980 N. Nevada St. in Spokane represents a significant step toward addressing the affordable housing crisis, particularly for refugees and the general public, without relying on tax dollars. Thrive International, an organization dedicated to providing transitional housing for refugee and immigrant families, is leading the effort, supported by the Spokane Public Library.
The project, spearheaded by Thrive International Director Mark Finney and in partnership with the Spokane Public Library, aims to construct a 48-unit complex on land previously owned by the library. This collaboration is seen as a dual solution to the local affordable housing crisis and the global refugee crisis in Spokane. Mayor Lisa Brown has voiced her support for the initiative, emphasizing the value of welcoming refugees into the community.
Key figures involved in the project include Andrew Chanse, the Executive Director of the Spokane Public Library, and Robert Foster, managing director of Courage Housing, who is working closely with Thrive for the project's development. Foster highlighted the financial structure of the project, which involves private investors offsetting costs, with the ultimate goal of Thrive becoming the sole owner of the project within a decade.
The development plan includes various amenities such as a playground, community garden, greenhouse, community center, and a 24/7 library kiosk, accessible to all residents of the Nevada neighborhood. Additionally, Thrive staff will provide support services for refugees, including citizenship assistance, healthcare connections, and vocational training.
The project's integration of public library services within the housing development is noted as a unique and innovative approach to addressing community needs. Spokane Public Library's involvement underscores its commitment to expanding access to its services while simultaneously tackling housing challenges.
This initiative represents Thrive's second venture into refugee housing in Spokane, building upon the success of the Thrive Center, which offers transitional housing for refugee families, predominantly those affected by the conflict in Ukraine. Through partnerships and innovative solutions, the project aims to enrich the lives of residents and strengthen the sense of community in Spokane. Bernardo Wills is proud to support this initiative with architectural and landscape architectural services, designing the site and multi-family housing.
