PHA OPENS FIRST SUPPORTIVE HOUSING FOR YOUTH EXITING FOSTER CARE OR EXPERIENCING HOUSING INSECURTIES
PHA celebrating the opening of 2112 Ridge Ave, their first facility for aging out foster children and housing insecure youth, (left to right:) PHA President & CEO Kelvin Jeremiah, Councilman Jeffrey Young , DHS Commissioner Kimberly Ali, Benchmark Construction President Kenn Penn, PHA Board Chair Lynette Brown-Sow, Former Council President & PHA Board Member Darrell Clarke, City of Philadelphia’s Chief Housing and Urban Development Officer Angela Brooks.
Newly constructed 36-unit building is a collaborative effort between housing authority and city’s Department of Human Services and Office of Homeless Services
(Philadelphia – Oct. 31, 2025) – The Philadelphia Housing Authority (PHA) today joined with supportive service providers and elected officials to open the newly constructed community called 2112 Ridge Avenue, a supportive housing initiative designed to support young adults exiting foster care or are housing insecure.
“Safe, stable housing gives young adults leaving foster care the foundation they need to focus on building their futures instead of worrying about where they’ll sleep at night,” said PHA CEO Kelvin A. Jeremiah. “We want to prevent homelessness, stabilize young adults, and support them in achieving self-sufficiency. PHA is deeply grateful to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Secretary Scott Turner and First Lady Melania Trump both of whom have been strong advocates for youths aging out of foster care.”
“Valley Youth House is dedicated to empowering young people by fostering dependable relationships, providing safe spaces, and building strong community connections,” said Mayor Cherelle L. Parker. “This initiative is driven by strong intergovernmental partnerships across local, state, and federal levels, along with the power of collaboration.”
“Together, the Philadelphia Housing Authority and City Administration have established a groundbreaking housing approach that serves as a model for communities nationwide addressing young adult homelessness,” said Congressman Dwight Evans, Third Congressional District.
“Today marks a proud moment for North Philadelphia and for all who have worked tirelessly to bring new, affordable housing to our community,” said PA Senator Sharif Street, Third Senatorial District. “The opening of this new PHA community at 2112 Ridge Avenue is more than just a ribbon cutting—it represents hope for young adults and is a commitment to provide dignity, stability, and opportunity for those in need. When we invest in quality housing, we invest in stronger, safer, and more vibrant neighborhoods for generations to come. Every young person deserves a safe, stable place to call home as they build their future. This development is a testament to what we can achieve when we come together to break cycles of instability and invest in the next generation of Philadelphians.”
“From nuts to bolts PHA is here for you. I am in full support of the housing development advocacy PHA is doing,” said PA Representative Keith Harris, 195th Legislative District.
First of its kind, this 36-unit mixed-use building in the Sharswood section of the city provides 30-one and 6 two-bedroom units. The ground floor provides communal amenities such as a lobby and reception area, bike storage, multipurpose room, kitchenette, food pantry, and a computer lab. Separate dedicated office spaces for supportive service operations are also located on the ground floor.
Eligibility is focused on homeless or housing-insecure young adults aged 18-24 upon entry. Residents may only be referred by the city’s Department of Human Services or Office of Homeless Services.
Odin Properties will manage the facility. Valley Youth House was the competitively selected Supportive Service Provider for the project. The organization has decades of experience servicing youth and young adults experiencing housing instability or homelessness, including those involved with the foster care system.
“Odin Properties is proud to have been selected as the Property Manager for 2112 Ridge Avenue, utilizing our experience working with the PHA and housing authorities across the county to provide best in class service to the building’s residents. On a personal level, as a foster parent myself, I am especially grateful to play in a role in such an important project that will support vulnerable young adults and provide much needed affordable housing,“ said Jackson Duncan Senior Regional Manager, Odin Properties.
“When children age out of foster care, they don’t age out of the need for guidance, stability, and opportunity. Providing resources ensures they have the foundation to thrive as independent adults,” said Thomas R. Harrington, President and Executive Director, Valley Youth House.
According to Jeremiah, the program is a transitional model. Residents will have on-site access to a wide range of supportive services and will be expected to participate in programs designed to help them build life skills, continue their education, find employment, and manage their finances responsibly. As program exit approaches, staff will provide comprehensive assistance to residents in securing permanent housing. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) combats youth homelessness by providing funding and technical assistance to local communities.
The 2112 Ridge Avenue site is a $12 million federally funded PHA development in the Sharswood neighborhood in North Philadelphia.
WHAT: The Philadelphia Housing Authority (PHA) will host a community celebration marking a major milestone in the revitalization of the Sharswood neighborhood—a bold and ongoing investment in affordable housing, economic opportunity, and community renewal.
More than a single project, this revitalization represents years of collaboration between residents, stakeholders, and public agencies—all committed to restoring dignity, opportunity, and lasting stability to one of Philadelphia’s historic neighborhoods.
