Crime Fighting Affordable Housing Expansion Plan Unveiled

Time for Change Foundation (TFCF) recently unveiled its proposal to expand its nationally-recognized model of affordable housing. Upon acquisition of the parcel contiguous to its Phoenix Square Multi-Housing Project, TFCF intends to develop four separate structures mirroring that of the facility located 657 N. “F” St in San Bernardino, to further meet the needs of residents in the city of San Bernardino earning 50 percent or less of the area median income. Additionally, TFCF shared its vision of a partnership with the city’s proposed Homeless Access Center (HAC), whereby TFCF would be an investor into the renovation of the old GTE building located on the corner of “E” Street and Victoria. The goal is to utilize that 60,000 square feet to accommodate TFCF’s current administration needs, those of the HAC and additional non-profit partners wishing to join this diversely funded project. “The beauty in a space this big is that we could subdivide the building, create separate entrances whereby each entity would be totally separate” said Executive Director Kim Carter. “Plus, the city can count on us to be here.... we’re not an overnight sensation... we’re committed and willing to invest. That makes a big difference.” Gold plated symbolic keys were handed out to those who contributed to the success of Time for Change Foundation and to those the organization hopes will help unlock their vision for the future. Two minute presentations were given to invited dignitaries who spoke of the impact of Carter’s presence and work in the community. “Time for Change is a flagship, it’s a point of reference, it is the alternative to despairing, to the loss of hope, to desperateness, to hopelessness and to homelessness," said County Supervisor Josie Gonzales (5th District). “The project’s name, Phoenix, is a metaphor; a rising from the ashes... a true rebirth, a renaissance,” said Jim Muhlville, San Bernardino city council member for the 7th Ward. “What a model location we have here for others to emulate that go through the crime free housing program,” said San Bernardino Deputy Police Chief Eric McBride. Also in attendance were councilmembers Virginia Marquez (1st Ward) and Benito J. Barrios (2nd ward); California Institution for Women's Warden Kimberly Hughes, Mayor Pete Aguilar of Redlands, and San Bernardino County's Probation and Parole Department representatives. TFCF’s Phoenix Square Crime Free Multi-Housing project received the Crime Prevention through Environmental Design award by the city of San Bernardino in 2012, and has been instrumental as a crime fighting tool capturing neighborhood burglaries and robberies on its surveillance camera assisting both the San Bernardino city and school police. TFCF’s Phoenix Square and other permanent housing and shelter locations throughout the city have lessened the draining of city resources from 911 calls, ambulances and other emergency services. According to supporters, TFCF’s reputation, strong financial position, historical and result driven mission empower them to make a difference. The mission of Time for Change Foundation is to empower disenfranchised low-income individuals and families by building leadership through evidence-based programs and housing to create self-sufficiency and thriving communities. Carter’s goal is to keep all jobs in connection with her projects, located in San Bernardino, and to bring money into San Bernardino from other areas.