San Diego City Wire

A new affordable housing development has officially opened in North County, providing much-needed accommodation for seniors and veterans in the community. Santa Fe Senior Village, located on North Santa Fe Drive in Downtown Vista, is a 54-unit apartment building offering permanent supportive housing. It caters specifically to extremely low to low-income individuals aged 62 and older.

The development primarily consists of 51 studio apartments and two one-bedroom apartments. Of these, 27 units are fully furnished to assist those who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. The project is strategically placed near the Vista Transit Center Station, facilitating easy public transport access for its residents. Nearby amenities include a grocery store, a public park, restaurants, a library, and a medical clinic.

"This project meets a critical need for affordable housing and allows our seniors and working families to stay in the community they love," said County Supervisor Jim Desmond. “I’m proud to support this effort, which serves as a model for how we can make North County more livable and accessible for everyone.”

A collaboration between National Core and the San Diego Community Housing Corporation, Santa Fe Senior Village is backed by both public and private contributions, including substantial support from the County and the City of Vista. The County allocated $9.3 million and provided 53 Project-Based Housing Choice Vouchers to ensure long-term housing stability. Additionally, the County's Behavioral Health Services offers vital support services like case management and care coordination.

"Santa Fe Senior Village is proof that as a community we can come together to provide the appropriate housing and services for our most vulnerable neighbors," stated Kimberly Giardina, Deputy Chief Administrative Officer for the County Health and Human Services Agency. "Safe, affordable housing is critical and combining it with much needed supportive services will have lasting positive impacts on this community for years to come.”

Amenities at the Santa Fe Senior Village include a community room, computer lab, barbecue area, community garden, outdoor terrace, and laundry facilities. Those interested in joining the waitlist are encouraged to contact National Core and Santa Fe Senior Village.

Since 2017, the County has invested over $325 million in affordable housing projects. Funds have been used to establish over 2,588 homes, with 1,593 of these intended for seniors, and several more currently under development.