Construction of a permanent supportive housing development in Midtown, Houston, named after local celebrities Beyoncé Knowles and Kelly Rowland, is set to commence in the first quarter of 2024.
The nonprofit organization responsible for the project has announced that it aims to complete the development by the end of the same year. According to Bread of Life CEO Yvette Tarrant, the city of Houston is committed to providing housing for all its residents.
Tarrant expressed her belief that seeing formerly homeless individuals walking the streets with dignity and confidence is a testament to the city’s dedication.
She also emphasized the organization’s joy in being able to offer these individuals a place to live, free from worry about their belongings, and an opportunity to rebuild their lives.
“I really believe the city of Houston wants to have everybody housed,” Bread of Life CEO Yvette Tarrant said. “For the future, I believe that when we see our citizens walking around that used to be homeless and sleeping under the bridge, being able to stand up with dignity and confidence. We’re so happy to surround them and give them a place to live, a place to be free, to not worry about their belongings and a place to regenerate their lives.”
Officials have estimated that the project will cost nearly $9 million to complete. Of this amount, $7.2 million will be allocated from Harris County’s federal American Rescue Plan Act funds.
The funding was approved by commissioners in June. Bread of Life will be transforming its former gymnasium on its campus into 31 housing units to assist Houston residents in need. Pastor Rudy Rasmus, co-founder and executive director of Bread of Life, highlighted the urgent need for stable housing among underserved Houstonians.
“There is a critical need to provide stable housing to many underserved Houstonians,” said Pastor Rasmus. “We are grateful for the support of Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo and the commissioners. The resources they provide are critical to helping everyone in the community thrive.”
He expressed gratitude for the support of Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo and the commissioners, emphasizing the crucial role their resources play in helping the community thrive.
Tina Knowles and Matthew Knowles, long-time supporters of Bread of Life’s mission, have been instrumental in the organization’s endeavors. The Knowles family provided financial support for the initial construction of the building back in 1999. Tina Knowles expressed her admiration for Bread of Life, commending their dedication to their cause.
“This has just been that kind of place that I would do anything for,” Tina Knowles said. “I just commend them because they have really embraced this.”
