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Spirit News Article

Article from Spirit News Riverwards:

The Women’s Community Revitalization Project (WCRP) and partner Firm Hope Baptist Church cut the ribbon during a ceremony Friday at Grace Townhomes, a newly built residential development that brings 36 townhomes to a formerly blighted lot in Port Richmond.

The two, three and four bedroom townhomes are rental units with options for eventual home ownership. They are the first homes to be built on land owned by the Community Justice Land Trust, which will ensure that the homes remain permanently affordable.

“This is a proud moment,” said Nora Lichtash, Executive Director of the Women’s Community Revitalization Project. “Families are now replacing blight and have an opportunity to live in beautiful homes that they can afford. To witness this transformation – from vacant land to what you see here today – is astounding.”

Nora Lichtash (left), Executive Director of the Women’s Community Revitalization Project, and Richard Harris (right), Pastor at Firm Hope Baptist Church holding Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney's citation celebrating the Grace Townhomes ribbon cutting.

Each home features a variety of amenities including central air conditioning, washer/dryers and more. Construction began last September and families will move in next week.

“I’m proud to support these community partners in their efforts to revitalize this neighborhood,” 1st District City Councilman Mark Squilla said. “Not only will Grace Townhomes bring new energy to a formerly blighted block, it will also help to address the growing need for affordable housing across our city. This development is an excellent example of how real change happens by working together, and it’s an honor to be here today.”

Firm Hope Baptist Church, a strong neighborhood anchor in the Port Richmond community for many years, partnered with WCRP to make Grace Townhomes a reality.

“It’s a new day in Port Richmond,” said Richard Harris, Pastor at Firm Hope Baptist Church. “We look forward to welcoming to the neighborhood the families who will soon live in these homes. It’s a wonderful community and the future is looking ever brighter.”

“Built on the bedrock of a great community,” said PA House District 175 Representative Michael O’Brien. “Taking the deep roots of the Firm Hope Baptist Church, the skill of WCRP and the vibrancy of the community to ensure a brighter future is a remarkable combination.”

The Women’s Community Revitalization Project (WCRP) is committed to social and economic equity for low-income women and their families, developing housing; providing supportive services, advocating for policy change and honoring leadership, dignity, and justice in our communities.

Learn more at http://www.wcrpphila.org
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