A new affordable housing community had its grand opening in Lane County, Monday. The Oaks at 14th will provide housing to an especially underserved population: people with criminal histories who have served their time and want to rejoin society.

A large crowd gathered in west Eugene for a sun-drenched dedication ceremony. County officials, law enforcement and a member of the Churchill Neighborhood Association talked about the collaborative spirit needed to make this colorful, 54-unit apartment complex a reality.

Jacob Fox is the Executive Director of the Housing and Community Services Agency of Lane County—or HACSA. He says at last count, he’s been to over 50 opening celebrations for affordable housing, apartment communities…

Fox: “I can tell you without hesitation that this innovative, thoughtful project is the one that stands out over all the rest because of the positive impact it will have on the lives of those returning to our community after successfully completing their prison sentences.”

Fox gave a big nod to Lane County and then noted this community could not have been built without Sponsors, an agency which provides housing and employment opportunities to people released from Oregon jails and prisons. Paul Solomon heads up Sponsors.

Solomon: “This project will impact the lives of countless individuals and go a long way towards enhancing public safety-- and improving the lives of every person who has the good fortune to live here.”

The Oaks at 14th will provide on-site services like therapy, financial planning, parenting classes and parole and probation.