San Juan Community Home Trust

The San Juan Community Home Trust is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating and preserving permanently affordable housing in the San Juan Islands, Washington. It is the only organization of its kind dedicated to this mission on the islands.

Mission

The Home Trust's mission is to provide permanently affordable housing for low- and moderate-income island residents, thereby promoting economic diversity and a sustainable community. This effort supports the broader goal of maintaining the unique character and quality of life in the San Juan Islands.

Activities and Partnerships

• Housing Development: The organization develops housing projects that fit within the historic and environmental context of the San Juan Islands. For example, the Argyle project aims to create affordable units while adhering to local building codes and historic preservation requirements[2].
• Community Engagement: The Home Trust engages deeply with the community through outreach and design processes to ensure that housing projects meet local needs and expectations. This includes maintaining strong relationships with local government, homeowners, and potential homeowners[2].
• Funding and Partnerships: The organization secured funding for projects through low-income housing tax credits, grants, and long-term financing options such as USDA-guaranteed loans[2]. It collaborates with other local entities, like the San Juan County Conservation Land Bank, to leverage resources for housing initiatives[1].

Impact

The San Juan Community Home Trust plays a crucial role in addressing the housing challenges in the San Juan Islands. By providing affordable housing options, it helps maintain a diverse community and supports local economic stability. Additionally, its work contributes to preserving the natural environment and cultural heritage of the region.

Collaboration with Other Organizations

The Home Trust is involved in discussions with other organizations, such as the San Juan Island Library Board, exploring the possibility of integrating affordable housing into larger community development projects[3]. However, its primary focus remains on creating and preserving affordable housing opportunities for island residents.