Improvements are continuing to be seen in Clearlake Oaks. Another beneficial project was embarked upon Friday morning when Eskaton, a non-profit provider of senior residences and services, was joined by the community for a groundbreaking ceremony at 75 Lake Street.
The ceremony marked the beginning of construction on Eskaton Clearlake Oaks Manor, which will provide 23 affording housing units for seniors. The event was attended by several local and state representatives who were instrumental in bringing the project to fruition.
Cathy Sailor, Eskaton director of operations, served as mistress of ceremonies for the event. She said the project was initiated five years ago when members of the United Methodist Church contacted Eskaton regarding its possible involvement in the project.
“They had a dream for the quality of life for residents of Clearlake Oaks and that dream included improving the quality of life for seniors,” Sailor said. “It”s been a long challenging journey and in about eight months we”ll have clean, safe affordable housing for 23 seniors.”
Rev. Dr. Rick Schlosser led the group in prayer. “Thank you for helping us keep steady in this long process,” he said. “We ask for your blessing on this project and all who live and work here.”
The project will utilize $1.4 million in taxpayer money administered through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Sailor said in introducing Richard Rainey of the HUD San Francisco Regional Office. “From government you always hear we”re here to help you. The great thing with HUD, that”s exactly what we”re here to do. We”re here to help,” Rainey said. “It takes a lot of dedication and hard work to put a project like this together. Congratulations to all for hanging in there and making sure this project actually comes to fruition.”
Sailor said there were more obstacles involved in the project that anyone would care to count. She said, when called upon to help, the Lake County Board of Supervisors and county administration did just that. The county donated the land for the project and provided monetary contributions to cover costs that were not covered through use of HUD funds.
“I”m so grateful to this community for their vision,” Denise Rushing, third district supervisor said. “This project fills a vital need in the community.”
Rushing mentioned that more than 80 percent of the project will be funded through state and federal funds. She continued with thanks to Congressman Mike Thompson, who was unable to attend the event, for his support in the project. Rushing also mentioned the late pastors Bill Thornton and Ruth Canady whose dreams for the community have been carried on by the residents of Clearlake Oaks. “I want to give special mention to Pastor Bill Thornton and Ruth Canady,” she said. “They have brought about the heart and soul of this community.”
Eskaton Clearlake Oaks Manor board of directors president Hank Bushell also addressed the crowd relaying the gratitude expressed in letters from many of the area”s seniors.
Appreciation was also extended to Darin McCosker and the Clearlake Oaks County Water District.
“Clearlake Oaks is a very special town and soon it will have a very special place for seniors to live,” Sailor said in concluding the program.
Funding for the project totals $3,225,000. In addition to HUD monies and funds provided by the County of Lake Redevelopment Agency and Eskaton, California Housing and Community Development HOME Funds were also obtained.
Eskaton is a nonprofit provider of senior residences and services throughout northern California. Its mission is to enhance the quality of life for seniors through innovative health, housing and social services.
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