What if a single project could change the landscape of affordable housing in New Jersey? Meet Adenah Bayoh, a trailblazer making history.
A former refugee, Adenah Bayoh has transformed Newark's real estate scene by becoming the first Black woman in New Jersey to secure a low-income housing tax credit for a major affordable housing project. In a state grappling with a severe housing crisis, her initiatives hold the promise of genuine community empowerment.
^^ Understanding the Affordable Housing Project in Newark
The new affordable housing project on South 11th Street is not your average apartment complex. Slated to open this summer, it includes 40 units designed for families who need them the most. Emphasizing a holistic approach, the project provides community support services like free Wi-Fi, laptops for children, and educational assistance through partnerships with local organizations. This model represents a significant step in addressing the state’s pressing housing issues.
Bayoh chatted with NJ Advance Media about her vision. “I’m not just putting a roof over people’s heads,” she stated. “I’m imagining how to help the people in this community thrive.” This project is set to include five units specifically designated for families experiencing homelessness.
^^ Bayoh’s Journey to Becoming a Developer
Bayoh’s story is one of resilience and determination. After migrating to Newark from war-torn Liberia as a teenager, she faced significant challenges, including learning to read and navigating a new culture. Her first job was at McDonald's, but the lessons learned during her formative years laid the groundwork for her future.
She attributes her success to her experiences in Essex County. “To this city, I owe everything,” Bayoh said. Through hard work and determination, she has become one of New Jersey’s leading affordable housing developers and a significant employer in Irvington.
^^ Impact of Low-Income Housing Tax Credits
In 2022, Bayoh made history by receiving the low-income housing tax credit that enables developers to create affordable units for low- and moderate-income families. According to the New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency, over 70,000 apartments have been funded through such credits, illustrating the program's broad impact.
The Newark affordable housing project is a testament to the potential of these credits, as it provides much-needed housing in a city plagued by economic challenges. Newark has some of the highest rates of chronic homelessness in the state, making Bayoh's work even more crucial.
^^ Community Support: A Foundation for Success
The strength of Bayoh's project lies in its community partnerships. Collaborations with the YMCA of Newark, Vicinity, and the Brick Education Network enable her to offer comprehensive resources aimed at uplifting families. These partnerships align closely with Bayoh's vision of integrated services that go beyond mere shelter.
Residents at the Newark complex will have access to on-site health and fitness classes, counseling, and childcare services. This inclusive approach addresses vital community needs and helps establish a supportive environment for families.
^^ The Broader Housing Crisis
The housing crisis in New Jersey is dire, with nearly half of renters spending more than 30% of their income on rent, categorizing them as overburdened. Newark has been deemed the worst large city in the country for renters, shedding light on the urgent need for affordable options. Bayoh has framed affordable housing as a civil rights issue, highlighting how it directly impacts people's ability to thrive.
Mayor Ras J. Baraka has echoed her concerns, noting the necessity of removing financial barriers for lower-income families. Projects like Bayoh's contribute to alleviating these challenges by adding more affordable homes to the market.
^^ Future Plans: Expanding Outreach
Bayoh has no intention of stopping with Newark. She aims to extend her work to underserved areas in South Jersey, including Atlantic City and Camden. These expansions are crucial in creating housing solutions in regions that have long faced economic and social challenges.
Her commitment to affordable housing initiatives demonstrates a personal investment in uplifting communities that are often marginalized.
^^ Bays of Opportunity: More Than Just Housing
Before her work in real estate, Bayoh was a franchise owner of IHOP, where she initiated free breakfast programs for kids under 12. Her influence has extended to various other businesses, including three Cornbread Farm to Soul restaurants in northern New Jersey. Her multifaceted efforts showcase her commitment to not just providing housing, but enriching communities from multiple angles.
Adenah Bayoh’s story exemplifies the impact that one individual can have on an entire community. By offering solutions through housing crisis solutions, she inspires others to advocate for change. With each unit built and each partnership forged, the vision of a flourishing community becomes more tangible.
The transformative work of Adenah Bayoh reflects a dedication to providing secure and supportive environments for families. As her projects unfold, they will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy in New Jersey, combating the challenges surrounding affordable housing projects throughout the state.