For years, Juan Machado moved from shelter to shelter, never certain where he would land next. Now, he opens the door to something different - a place of his own that represents stability, safety and a fresh start.

“This isn’t just any apartment,” Machado said. “I was welcomed, like this was for me. And I didn't feel like I was a stranger or that I would have restrictions. It felt like home!”

Machado’s new beginning comes as part of the Marcus Garvey Apartments expansion, a major affordable housing project backed by Services for the Underserved (S:US), L+M Development Partners and The Osborne Association. Gov. Kathy Hochul also played a key role, helping secure $82.8 million in funding to bring the development to life. One of the newly completed buildings, Building G, includes 109 affordable units, with more than half designated as supportive housing for people transitioning out of homelessness.

“Building G has 109 affordable apartments - 55 of those apartments are supportive apartments - people will be paired with supportive services provided by S:US,” said Lauren LaMack, Director of Housing Development at Services for the Underserved.

Those services are designed to help residents regain independence, offering job and health support, financial guidance and assistance with reconnecting families.

Each resident works with a dedicated wellness coach to help navigate that journey. Machado says that support has already changed his outlook.

“I started on the other side of the tracks and never really been given any opportunities,” he said. “Now I have a job, I have this beautiful apartment - I still have a lot more to go, so I appreciate it.”

In addition to supportive programming, residents have access to amenities that help create a sense of community, including on-site laundry, a fitness center, a shared lounge and a courtyard. The building is also fully electric and topped with solar panels, adding a sustainable element to the project.

An official ribbon-cutting is expected this fall, marking the next chapter for the development and for residents like Machado.

“Affordable housing is the answer to the homelessness crisis and the more housing we build, the more people we can get into homes,” LaMack said.