Groundbreaking ceremony marks start of new permanent supportive housing in Aurora

The Association for Individual Development, Hesed House, and The Neighbor Project hosted a groundbreaking ceremony on Nov. 14 to celebrate the start of construction on new Permanent Supportive Housing in Aurora.

The event brought together community members, partners, and leaders from across local, county, state, and federal levels.

Guests gathered for light breakfast fare before a program highlighting the community-driven effort to expand stable housing options for vulnerable residents. The ceremony took place at 550 Second Ave. in Aurora, the future site of the supportive housing development.

The program opened with welcoming remarks from Lore Baker of AID, Rick Guzman of The Neighbor Project, and Joe Jackson of Hesed House. Their messages underscored the collaborative vision behind the project and the positive impact it will bring to Aurora.

Elected officials and agency leaders also offered remarks, including Congressman Bill Foster, state Rep. Barbara Hernandez, Aurora Mayor John Laesch, Aurora Alderwoman Juany Garza, and Kane County Board Chair Corinne Pierog.

Each speaker emphasized the vital role permanent supportive housing plays in strengthening communities and improving outcomes for individuals experiencing homelessness and those with disabilities.

A building blessing was offered by Pastor Alex Merlo of Iglesia Evangélica Luterana San Pablo, marking both the significance of the moment and the work ahead. The ceremony concluded with closing remarks from Guzman and Joe Jackson, who thanked attendees and reaffirmed their commitment to addressing housing instability in Aurora.

The new Permanent Supportive Housing development represents a major step forward in expanding safe, long-term housing for individuals and families in need, supported by a coalition of dedicated partners working to create lasting change.