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November 6, 2023
Mariposa Lily Welcomes 41 Households Home in Los Angeles
Los Angeles 10th District City Councilwoman Heather Hutt, Los Angeles County officials, community partners, project funders, project team members, and new residents celebrated the grand opening of West Hollywood Community Housing Corporation’s (WHCHC) all-new affordable apartment community, Mariposa Lily, on Thursday, November 2, 2023!

“This is wonderful!” exclaimed Councilwoman Hutt. “This is about dignity. The dignity to come home to housing that is affordable, where you feel safe and don’t have to worry about rent. Congratulations to the new residents.”

Located in the Koreatown/Pico-Union neighborhood of Los Angeles, Mariposa Lily provides 41 high-quality affordable rental apartments for individuals and families with limited income, with 20 units reserved as permanent supportive housing for households who have experienced homelessness.

“We are excited to welcome our newest residents to their homes,” said Jesse Slansky, WHCHC President & CEO. “At the same time, we were overwhelmed with the need for high quality, affordable housing. More than 10,000 people applied for Mariposa Lily.”

“I’ve been stable in my employment for years, but it’s not enough to cover the constant rising rents,” said new resident, Shontique. “I am very grateful to have this opportunity. I still well up with relief and gratitude.”

Mariposa Lily is built on formerly under-utilized city-owned land and is partially funded by the Los Angeles Housing Department’s Measure HHH. Additional funders include Bank of America, California Department of Housing and Community Development, California Debt Limit Allocation Committee, California Tax Credit Allocation Committee, Citibank, Corporation for Supportive Housing, Los Angeles County Development Authority, Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health (No Place Like Home), and Los Angeles Housing Department.
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Designed by HED, the exterior references the historic art deco style to connect to the rich history of these Los Angeles neighborhoods. Targeting individuals and working families, Mariposa Lily includes one, two and three-bedroom homes, each with a private balcony, and universal design features to accommodate all physical abilities while allowing for residents to age-in-place. Built by United Building Company, Mariposa Lily received LEED for Homes Gold certification for environmental sustainability.

With spectacular views of Los Angeles, the skydeck at Mariposa Lily includes lush landscaping, edible gardens, barbecues and numerous gathering spots for residents to enjoy year-round. It also contains a fully furnished community room with a kitchenette and computer area. Combined, the rooftop serves as a hub for group activities such as lifelong learning workshops, exercise and nutrition programs and social functions that combat isolation and inspire community connection.

“WHCHC’s award-winning affordable apartment communities are amenity-rich,” said Anup Patel, WHCHC’s Director of Real Estate Development. “We know Mariposa Lily’s thoughtful design will positively impact our residents’ health and wellness for years to come.”

As at all WHCHC affordable apartment communities, on-site supportive services are available to all residents at no cost. WHCHC’s resident services team meet with all new households to assess their needs, create individualized service plans, and connect them to critical resources.

Mariposa Lily joins WHCHC’s four additional affordable communities at the nexus of Koreatown and Pico-Union neighborhoods in the City of Los Angeles Council District’s 1 and 10. Berendo Sage, 42 units for families, opened earlier this year. Westmore Linden, 93 units for seniors, and Elden Elms, 93 units for families, both opened during the pandemic and currently house over 350 people combined. Vermont Manzanita, 40 units for families, opened in 2015 and houses over 100 people.

“We are thrilled to complete Mariposa Lily,” said WHCHC’s Board Chair, Karl Lott. “The housing crisis continues, and we are driven by our mission to be a part of the solution to housing affordability and homelessness.”
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