The Native American Community Clinic announced this week that its south Minneapolis health clinic and affordable housing project is expected to open in September. And those interested in applying for one of its units are able to apply today.
The $55 million project along Minneapolis’ American Indian Cultural Corridor is being spearheaded by the clinic and a coalition of public, private, and philanthropic partners. They include the city, Hennepin County, Wellington Management, UnitedHealth Group, Greater Minnesota Housing Fund, and other organizations.
The 83-unit Wihinaphe Apartments, which means “New Beginnings,” according to a clinic press release, will be above the 30,000-square-foot health center.
GMHF’s support for this transformational project includes a $18.1M equity investment with UnitedHealth Group as the investor through our Minnesota Equity Fund, a $19.5 million construction loan, a $4.8M first mortgage, and a $4M energy mezzanine loan.
“GMHF plays a pivotal role in facilitating community development and financing affordable housing across Minnesota,” said Andrea Brennan, President & CEO. “UnitedHealth Group is an incredible long-term partner of GMHF, and when we asked NACC and Wellington if they’d consider redesigning their building to be net zero ready, they jumped at the opportunity. Projects like this are only possible with collaborative, committed partners.”
During a walkthrough of the construction site, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey said it’s logical for the city to invest in such a project.
“When you have access to dental care, to mental health, medical care, addiction treatment, all in the place where you live, you’re more likely to get better,” Frey said. “It makes sense for our city to be investing in it.”
Dr. Antony Stately, the clinic’s president and executive officer, said the campus is designed as an indigenous space.
“It’s all intended for you to have this experience when you walk into the building, that you’re in an indigenous place of healing and support and well-being,” Stately said during the tour. “The place is designed for indigenous people, native people specifically, and it is intended to represent them, so that they know that this is a place where they belong.”
Interested renters can use this interest form for information about applying to live in a unit.
Read the full story from MPR News.
Photo credit: Regina Medina, MPR News
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