Saint Elizabeth Apartments Brings Affordable Homes to Richmond Families
- VEREP
- Oct 3
- 2 min read
A new faith-rooted affordable housing community is taking shape in Richmond’s Northside. Saint Elizabeth Apartments, developed by Commonwealth Catholic Charities Housing Corporation (CCCHC), will provide 56 modern rental homes for low-income families while honoring the history and architectural character of the neighborhood.
Meeting Community Needs
Planning for Saint Elizabeth Apartments began in 2019 with more than 15 community meetings, ensuring that the project reflects local needs and neighborhood context. The result is a multi-family community designed with studios and 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom units across 14 buildings. Each building mirrors the American Foursquare homes found nearby, while a stand-alone community room and rental office adopt the Bungalow style typical of the area.
The development also includes a tree-lined urban driveway, a playground, and a walking trail that connects residents directly to the neighborhood elementary school.
A Legacy of Service
The site has deep roots in Richmond’s Catholic community. Originally donated in 1923 for the construction of Saint Elizabeth Roman Catholic Church, the land will now be provided through a 99-year ground lease by the Catholic Diocese of Richmond. The project extends the church’s legacy of community service and commitment to fostering a racially and economically diverse neighborhood.
Beyond Housing: Services and Support
In addition to housing, CCCHC will provide comprehensive resident services, including:
Rent and utility assistance
Financial counseling
Intensive case management
Food and nutritional support
This holistic approach ensures that families not only have a place to live but also access to resources that strengthen long-term stability.
Partnership and Investment
Saint Elizabeth Apartments is supported through a $9.3 million Low-Income Housing Tax Credit investment from VCDC, along with a $1.3 million low-interest loan to assist with construction costs. The project marks CCCHC’s first LIHTC development, reflecting its growing capacity to address Virginia’s housing needs.
