Seattle, WA
Mercy Housing Northwest
“Gardner House and Allen Family Center prioritize families with a two-pronged approach offering family-sized housing and services to help families avoid or exit homelessness.” — Jody Allen, co-founder and chair, Paul G. Allen Foundation
Year Completed/Renovated: 2020
Number of Units: 95
Residents: Family, formerly homeless
Project Cost: $46,000,000
Architect: Runberg Architecture Group
General Contractor: Walsh Construction Co.
Financial Partners: Paul G. Allen Family Foundation, City of Seattle Office of Housing, City of Seattle Human Services Department, Bank of America, Seattle Housing Authority, U.S. Bank CDC, Washington State Department of Commerce, Washington State Housing Finance Commission
In 2020, Mercy Housing Northwest, in partnership with the Paul G. Allen Family Foundation and the City of Seattle, opened the Gardner House and Allen Family Center, a beacon of hope for families previously facing homelessness and in need of affordable housing.
With 95 units in the eight-story building, the environmentally friendly and energy-efficient development sits within the beautiful Mt. Baker neighborhood, just steps away from public transportation, local dining, and a variety of shopping. In addition to its family-sized units, the Allen Family Center offers resources and services to residents, including employment help and training, childcare, and community-focused events.
Mercy Housing Northwest placed an emphasis on community support for the development. The Seattle Seahawks assisted with the onsite playground and participate in youth programs at the complex. Local organizations, including Mary’s Place, Child Care Resources, and Refugee Women’s Alliance, all provide services within the Allen Family Center. With this local support in place, residents will feel part of the community they live in, rather than cast aside.