Marcus Garvey Supportive Housing Program expands with the opening of Marcus Garvey II

On Tuesday, April 21, we marked the opening of the Marcus Garvey II Supportive Housing Program. Board members, donors, government partners, and housing leaders attended an afternoon event on the Marcus Garvey campus, celebrating the newly opened 88 units of housing for older adults. 

CEO Jon Monsalve highlighted the growing community, including the wide range of classes, workshops, and events available to residents, connections to health care upon arrival, supportive staff, and the critical role of supportive housing in addressing the needs of older New Yorkers returning from incarceration. He also thanked partners at the New York State Housing Finance Agency, New York State Homes and Community Renewal, New York City Housing Preservation and Development, and L+M Development Partners for their support.

Christina Green, Vice President of Housing Operations and Projects, reflected on the strength, resilience, and wisdom residents bring with them, as well as the teams that support individuals walking paths they themselves have also walked.

Two residents, Devone Sanders and Carmela Cintron, shared testimonials about the program’s impact. They described how safe and supportive housing has helped them build community, reconnect with family and friends, and take steps to transform their lives. One resident said the program provides the “supportive resources, empathy, and stability that we need to thrive.”

Deputy Borough President Kim Council and representatives from the office of Assemblywoman Latrice Walker attended and emphasized the importance of collaboration among nonprofits, government, and developers. The event ended with a tour led by Marcus Garvey staff, allowing guests to explore the building and visit the homes that residents have made their own.

Marcus Garvey II provides 88 units of permanent supportive housing for older adults returning from incarceration, with on-site services focused on long-term stability, health, and reentry.