County Supervisor Janice Hahn tours Laurel Grove, a former Motel 6 that has been converted into 97 studio apartments under the state’s Project Homekey program for the homeless. The complex is located on Pioneer Boulevard in West Whittier.
Courtesy photo
Wave Staff Report
WHITTIER — County Supervisor Janice Hahn was on hand Sept. 19 for the opening of Laurel Grove, a former Motel 6 that has been transformed into 97 studio apartments for previously homeless individuals under the state’s Project Homekey program.
Holos Communities, a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating spaces for all people, developed the site on Pioneer Boulevard. Executive Director and CEO Cristian Ahumada was joined by Hahn, Director of Homeless and Housing Sarah Mahin and others for the ceremonial grand opening.
“Project Homekey is the type of immediate, single source of financing solution that is urgently needed if we are ever to solve the homelessness crisis,” Ahumada said. “It allowed the project to be completed in one-third the time and one-third the cost of typical affordable housing today.”
“Laurel Grove is yet another testament to what’s possible with Project Homekey: in a fraction of the time and at a fraction of the cost, we’ve been able to convert an old motel into a space that’s not only beautiful and integrated into the community around it, but that’s going to give people a lifeline,” Hahn said. “Everyone who moves in here will be able to finally take a breath, focus less on where they will find to sleep tonight, and more on turning a page in their lives.”
Project Homekey, California’s innovative, COVID-era program helped developers purchase and convert the motel into permanent supportive housing. The streamlined process dramatically reduced the time required to assemble capital and source land to expedite projects like Laurel Grove.
Laurel Grove also employed a grant from the Rivers and Mountains Conservancy, which covered the costs of the park and sustainability features that are part of the project. The park features a bioswale to improve storm water management, drought resistant native plants that are supported through a greywater system that nurtures local habitat from recycled laundry water, and enriches the quality of life for residents and neighbors alike.
In addition, Laurel Grove introduces Holos’ second “living lung”—a dynamic grove of more than 100 trees, including citrus, that not only enhances the environment but also offers fresh produce to both residents and the surrounding community. The living lung sets a new standard for eco-conscious urban living that addresses basic needs beyond housing such as food insecurity.
Located directly across from Pioneer High School, Laurel Grove enjoys a connection with its neighbors. The high school’s art program donated original artwork specifically for the project. The partnership exemplifies the collaborative spirit that defines the Laurel Grove neighborhood and celebrates the contributions of local youth.
As one of the participating student’s stated: “Art … is very magical. It can heal and touch those around it. To help create … f or the housing project has not only been fun, but a wonderful experience. It will inspire many people who are struggling.”
With the opening of Laurel Grove, Holos reaffirms its dedication to building inclusive, resilient communities. Supporting Holos in fostering resident well-being is Pacific Clinics, who are the on-site supportive service provider for the building. Pacific Clinics assists the residents of Laurel Grove through wrap-around supportive services by fostering personal growth and self-sufficiency as each resident becomes secure in their new community.
