Linc Housing Unveils New Supportive Housing for the Homeless in El Monte

On May 14, 2025, Linc Housing, a renowned nonprofit organization dedicated to the development of affordable housing, celebrated the grand opening of its latest project, Willow Way. This supportive housing neighborhood, located in El Monte, comprises 39 homes designed specifically for individuals and families who have faced homelessness. The event gathered California Senator Susan Rubio, county officials, development partners, and new residents, marking a significant milestone in addressing homelessness in the region.

The recent homeless count in San Gabriel Valley revealed a staggering 7.5% rise in the number of homeless individuals between 2022 and 2023, highlighting the pressing need for reliable, affordable housing solutions. Willow Way—named to symbolize resilience and hope—provides not just homes but also a supportive environment aimed at fostering community and healing. The development boasts a variety of amenities including a community room equipped with computer stations, case management offices, a courtyard, and a rooftop deck established to create a nurturing space for its residents.

Senator Rubio expressed her pride in the achievement, stating, "We constructed the San Gabriel Valley Regional Housing Trust from scratch to equip our cities not merely with promises, but with tangible tools. We united our cities for critical funding, transforming investments into real homes for real families. "

New resident Martha, who recently secured a unit at Willow Way, shared her experience of instability. She had previously been evicted, forcing her and her 12-year-old daughter to couch surf with friends and sometimes sleep in their car. After an anxious wait in temporary housing, the approval for Willow Way came just as Martha was recovering from a significant surgery. "Today, my daughter is starting fresh at her new school, and I'm looking forward to resuming my nursing studies," said Martha. Her story encapsulates the transformative impact of secure housing.

Los Angeles County Chair Pro Tem Hilda L. Solis applauded the collaborative effort behind Willow Way, noting that the project represents not just safety and shelter but a holistic approach to combating homelessness. "It brings our unhoused neighbors indoors while creating avenues for stability and opportunities for growth."

Jed Leano, chair of the San Gabriel Valley Regional Housing Trust, emphasized the importance of such initiatives, stating, "This community provides a platform for residents to rebuild their lives and aspire for brighter futures. We commend the partnerships that made this project a reality."

Support for the residents will include essential services such as mental and physical health care, employment counseling, and educational assistance. These wraparound services will ensure that residents who have experienced homelessness receive the necessary support to thrive.

Suny Lay Chang, President and COO of Linc Housing, stated, "Willow Way is designed as a foundation where residents can cultivate roots. It marks the beginning of their healing process." The development team has witnessed inspiring interactions among residents as they build supportive relationships following significant hardships, exemplifying what community truly means.

The funding for Willow Way came from several sources, including $700,000 in HOME Funds from El Monte, $1.56 million from the San Gabriel Valley Regional Housing Trust Fund, and $5 million from the Los Angeles County Development Authority. The construction, overseen by KFA Architecture and built by Walton Construction, began in March 2023 and welcomed its first residents in February 2025.

In alignment with Linc Housing's mission for equity, the project actively promoted diverse hiring practices, surpassing its goals for Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) participation. The initiative aimed to rectify long-standing economic disparities, ensuring marginalized groups benefited from job opportunities generated by the development.

For more than 40 years, Linc Housing has been at the forefront of addressing housing needs for underserved communities, successfully creating over 10,000 homes across California. Their mission continues as they encourage sustainable bridging of gaps in housing availability and the support structures that accompany them, fostering healthier and more equitable communities.

For additional information about Linc Housing and their impactful initiatives, visit LincHousing.org.