Parish Heights Housing Development in Corning Receives $4.9 Million State Funding

• Author: Bernard Reynolds
• Posted: 2024-03-13

The Parish Heights housing development project in Corning has secured a substantial grant of $4.9 million from the state, signifying a major advancement in providing permanent housing for formerly homeless individuals in the community.

Planned to offer a total of 45 units, the funding received will be dedicated to the initial phase, consisting of 15 units of permanent supportive housing for frail elderly or senior citizens.

Housing Visions Consultants, Inc. is spearheading the development project, with the aim to transform the former St. Vincent de Paul Church campus on Corning’s Northside into a residential complex that also incorporates a daycare center.

The recent funding allocation was granted through a competitive process by the Homeless Housing and Assistance Program under the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance.

Emphasizing the significance of the grant, Jennifer Miller, Corning's planning and economic development director, highlighted that the 15 supportive housing units will cater specifically to elderly individuals over the age of 55, enrolled in Medicaid, and requiring assistance with daily living activities.

These residents will benefit from comprehensive support services offered by AIM Independent Living Center, focusing on various essential aspects such as case management, crisis intervention, legal aid, mental health support, and vocational services.

State Assemblyman Phil Palmesano praised the project's potential to address the pressing need for affordable and sustainable housing in Corning, emphasizing the collaborative effort between the community and local service providers.

Additionally, Ben Lockwood, the president of Housing Visions, expressed optimism in the transformative impact of the Parish Heights project, underlining its role in providing affordable housing that enhances the lives of vulnerable seniors in the region.

The ultimate goal of Parish Heights is to create a multi-generational, mixed-income housing community that offers a supportive and inclusive environment for residents.

As additional state funding is being sought to complete the remaining 30 units of the complex, the development stands as a beacon of hope in the effort to address housing challenges and uplift the community in Corning.