Reviving Roseland: New Homes Bring Hope and Opportunity to Chicago’s South Side
Revitalizing Roseland: A Vision Comes to Life
Rev. James T. Meeks, president of the Hope Center Foundation, recounted the genesis of this bold project. “We joined United Power for Action & Justice, a group committed to building homes on vacant lots,” he said. “There was representation from the West Side and Back of the Yards, but none from Roseland. So we took on the mantle.”
The first ten lots were once parking spaces for Salem Baptist Church, a reflection of the neighborhood’s long-standing disinvestment. Now, they are the foundation for new beginnings.
Pathway to Ownership: A Journey of Faith and Perseverance
Sean Brinker calls acquiring his new home “an opportunity to walk into equity and be part of building a community.” (Photo Credit: Tacuma Roeback)
The road to homeownership wasn’t easy. Over the past year, these families attended financial literacy classes, repaired credit and navigated the complexities of securing loans. For new homeowner Sean Brinker, the process was daunting but worthwhile.
“This is the best Christmas gift I’ve ever had,” Brinker said. “It’s an opportunity to walk into equity and be part of building a community. For anyone doubting if homeownership is possible, I’d say, start with your credit. Work on it. It’s not out of reach.”
Building a Future, One Home at a Time
James Williams Jr. in front of his new home in Roseland (Photo Credit: Tacuma Roeback)
With plans to cut the home-buying process in half next year, Muse is optimistic about scaling the project. “We’re breaking ground on 25 more homes this spring. Our pipeline has over 400 prospective buyers ready to transform vacant lots into vibrant neighborhoods.”
Conclusion
The initiative to revitalize Roseland is a bold step towards transforming the lives of residents and rebuilding the community. By providing new homes and resources, the Hope Center Foundation, United Power for Action & Justice, and Salem Baptist Church are creating a brighter future for the neighborhood. As Rev. Meeks emphasized, “These homes will do more than house families. They’ll transform neighborhoods. With 10 families on this block, we can form a block club, engage local schools and demand attention from elected officials. People bring retail. Retail brings resources. Together, we rebuild.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the goal of the Roseland revitalization project?
A: The goal is to build 1,000 homes in Roseland and 1,000 in the West Side, transforming vacant lots into vibrant neighborhoods and providing new opportunities for residents.
Q: How will the project benefit the community?
A: The project will create new homes, jobs, and resources, allowing residents to start building equity and achieving long-term stability.
Q: What is the timeline for the project?
A: The project is already underway, with 10 homes built, and plans to break ground on 25 more in the spring. The goal is to cut the home-buying process in half next year.
Q: Who is leading the project?
A: The Hope Center Foundation, United Power for Action & Justice, and Salem Baptist Church are leading the project, with Rev. James T. Meeks as the president of the Hope Center Foundation.
