Transparency
REDDING, Calif. — The grand opening of Piper Way Senior Apartments in Redding marked more than the completion of a building — it represented hope, stability and inclusion for seniors and individuals with developmental disabilities seeking safe, affordable homes.
The 60-unit affordable housing community, developed by Christian Church Homes (CCH) in partnership with the City of Redding, the California Department of Developmental Services, and Far Northern Regional Center, was celebrated at a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by local officials, church leaders, and residents. “Piper Way represents the conviction that safe, affordable homes are the bedrock of health, dignity, integrity and independence for the seniors who live here,” said CCH Chief Executive Officer Cynthia Alvarez during the event. “This is not just an address. It is peace of mind, stability and belonging.”
Nine of the apartments at Piper Way are reserved for individuals with developmental disabilities, making it the first project in the state’s history to specifically integrate seniors and individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities into one inclusive community.
“This is historic for us,” Jim Morgan, a representative from the California Department of Developmental Services said. “It’s the first affordable housing project for seniors with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the department’s history.”
For residents like Susan Cohn, who has a developmental disability and had challenges for over a year, Piper Way has been life changing. “When I found out I was accepted, I was so happy. Everyone here is friendly and accommodating — it’s really comfortable.”
Cohn previously worked as a consumer advocate for the regional center system, helping others with developmental disabilities learn self-advocacy and life skills. Now, as a resident, she said Piper Way allows her to continue to live independently.
“It’s wonderful,” Cohn said. “I like that they have activities in the evenings because I’m out during the day, and now I can participate more. There are other Far Northern clients here, so it feels like a community.” Redding Assistant City Manager Steve Bade praised the project’s impact and inclusivity. “If I had an elderly parent that needed to be somewhere, I would try to get them into this facility because this is like the gold standard,” Davis said.
The project also fulfilled a long-held dream for First Christian Church of Redding, which purchased the property in the 1990s with hopes of using it to help those in need. “Despite being told the land was useless, the faithful defied the odds,” a church representative said. “They moved forward to buy the property, poison oak and all, hoping one day to dedicate it to assist those in need of low-cost, sustainable housing.”
For Cohn, the development is not just a place to live — it’s a place to grow. “This is brand new,” she said. “You just have to have an open mind, and maybe down the road there’ll be adjustments to make things even better. But it already feels like home.” As the ribbon was cut and applause filled the air, CCH offered a warm welcome to the new community: “To our new residents, welcome home.”