Organizers preparing to accept applications for those who wish to live in development
By: Matthew Armstrong
Construction is moving along on a new low-cost senior housing development, and organizers are gearing up to accept applications from seniors who want to live there.
Oak Woods, a 74-unit federally subsidized senior housing facility, is expected to be completed by June. It will provide housing and services for low-income seniors. There also will be an activities center, and many services will be provided for residents.
"We’re moving right along," said Karen Scalera, property manager for Oak Woods. "Everything’s about 50 percent completed. Right now, we are working on advertising and applications."
A similar 84-unit development, Charleston Place on Route 27, is the township’s only low-income housing development for seniors. Ten years ago, a group affiliated with Charleston Place set out to increase housing space for seniors. Oak Woods Inc. was created and sought funding for construction of a new facility. Federal funding was allocated last year for the construction of Oak Woods on Route 522.
Applications for residency will soon be made available to seniors at least 62 years old who have a low income.
Applicants do not need to be township residents. New income guidelines will be released by the federal government in February.
Last year’s guidelines required that for a person to be eligible for this subsidized housing, their gross income must be less than $28,300. For a couple, their income could be no more than $32,300.
Tenants will use 30 percent of their income for rent. The federal government will subsidize the rest.
Applications will be accepted at Charleston Place and the Affordable Housing Office in the municipal building. Applications will be accepted until March 15. A lottery drawing to pick the accepted applications is planned for April.
Oaks Woods also is getting everything in order for a smooth transition for its tenants. An activities center, which will host many events, programs and services, is being built. Oak Woods is working with the township to provide tenants with transportation to the Senior Center and shopping centers.
In addition, Oak Woods may receive a grant that would allow it to provide dinner daily and arrange for housekeeping and other services, said Ms. Scalera.
Oak Woods also is considering working with Citizens for Independent Living, which provides housing and assistance for developmentally disabled adults on an adjacent tract.
"We hope to share services and include their residents in programs," said Ms. Scalera. "The young people at CIL could help seniors at Oak Woods."
To apply for residency, contact the township at (732) 329-4000, ext. 219.