IMMOKALEE — On March 1, Immokalee Fair Housing Alliance will host a “Wall Raising Event” to celebrate construction on the first of eight new apartment buildings for low-income families in Immokalee. The community is invited to attend the complimentary signature event at the new site during which guests will sign the walls to emphasize support and celebrate the realization of a solution to the housing crisis in Immokalee.

“Many farmworkers and other low-income families in Immokalee are currently living in overcrowded and dilapidated shacks and trailers, with holes in the floor and walls, persistent mold, non-working toilets, air conditioning or appliances, and this is simply unacceptable,” said Arol Buntzman, chair of the Immokalee Fair Housing Alliance. “Some families are paying 70% or more of their income on rent, leaving little for food, medical services, child care and other services most would consider necessities. Through this project, safe, affordable housing is coming to Immokalee to help families overcome deplorable housing conditions and open doors to a better life.”

The new category 5 hurricane-rated rental complex on Lake Trafford Road in Immokalee will include 128 two- and three-bedroom apartments, along with a community center for meetings, after-school programs, health care assistance and more.

Made possible through grants and private philanthropic support, the community’s rental rates will be capped at no more than 30% of a family’s household income and long-term maintenance for the apartments and communities will be fully covered.

The first of eight rental buildings planned for the project is scheduled to be completed in late-2023.

The “Wall Raising Event” begins at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, March 1 at the northwest corner of Lake Trafford Road and 19th Street in Immokalee. RSVPs are encouraged, but not required. To learn more, visit ImmokaleeFairHousing.org.