In South Sacramento, a severe shortage of affordable homes means many families struggle with housing costs that leave little income for anything else. Others are already without a home at all.
Cornerstone – a first-of-its-kind, mixed-income, resident-led housing development offers a fresh answer by providing stable, long-term homes for people experiencing housing insecurity. The development brings rental and ownership homes together in one community, creating a neighbourhood where people from different backgrounds can live, grow and support one another.
The project was made possible through a partnership between Mutual Housing and Habitat for Humanity for Greater Sacramento. By working together, they secured public support, access to land and important planning changes that opened the door to a more inclusive approach to development. Their model places sustainability, long-term affordability and community involvement at centre stage.
Residents are supported through councils, events and local services that help strengthen neighbourhood ties. Renters are offered financial coaching and connection to first time buyer programmes, so they now see homeownership as something that is achievable.
The diverse mix of residents has subsequently been active in advocating for the creation of schools, parks, and infrastructure.
Cornerstone shows what can happen when organisations break down barriers: more affordable homes, more pathways to ownership and stronger, more resilient communities represent a significant shift in how housing is provided. The success of the project is now inspiring similar efforts in other regions across the United States.
