Hahn Celebrates Grand Opening of 97 New Apartments for Formerly Homeless in West Whittier
Whittier, CA – Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn joined Holos Communities on Friday, Sept. 19, to celebrate the grand opening of Laurel Grove, Holos’ second Project Homekey development.
Hahn was joined by Holos Executive Director & CEO Cristian Ahumada, Director of Homeless and Housing, Sarah Mahin, and others for the ceremonial grand opening. Laurel Grove transformed a former Motel 6 into a vibrant development creating 97 studio apartments for previously homeless individuals in addition to a park and a living lung at an impressive price point and timeline.
Supervisor Hahn and Whittier First Friends Church Pastor Loletta Barrett speak with Angela, one of the new residents at Laurel Grove.
“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,” said Supervisor Janice Hahn, whose district includes West Whitter-Los Nietos. “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 underutilized hotels and motels into permanent supportive housing. The streamlined process dramatically reduced the time required to assemble capital and source land to expedite projects like Laurel Grove. Although most Homekey funding has now been allocated, it is an excellent example of the types of tools needed to address the region’s housing crisis.
“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. It allowed the project to be completed in 1/3 the time and 1/3 the cost of typical affordable housing today,” said Cristian Ahumada, Holos Communities’ Executive Director.
Laurel Grove also employed a grant from the Rivers and Mountains Conservancy (RMC), which covered the costs of Laurel’s park and sustainability features. 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 over a hundred trees, including citrus, that not only enhances the environment but also offers fresh produce to both residents and the surrounding community. This 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 the local high school, Laurel Grove enjoys a spirited connection with its neighbors. The high school’s art program has generously designed and donated original artwork specifically for the project, infusing the community’s shared spaces with creativity and pride. This 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…for 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. From the thoughtful landscaping and sustainable design to the active involvement of local partners, every element of Laurel Grove reflects Holos’ ongoing commitment to innovation and resident well-being. Supporting Holos in fostering resident well-being is Pacific Clinics, who are the on-site supportive service provider for the building. Pacific Clinics assist 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.