Program areas at Africatown Community Land Trust
Africatown Community Land Trust (ACLT) completed a $13.8 million acquisition of the former Keiro Rehabilitation Center,a full block in the heart of the Central District previously slated for market-rate development.In the midst of Seattles homelessness crisis, Benu Community Home made use of the existing facilities and established a culturally responsive shelter focused on reducing the disproportionate over-representation of unsheltered, Black men within the population. ACLT received funding from City of Seattle Human Services Department and King County Regional Homeless Authority.Hosted several community listening and outreach sessions to address concerns and discuss plans for Benu Community Home.Benu Community Home staff welcomed its first group of 30 community residents on December 1st 2021. 226 individuals have been served. 66 Individuals got housing and 79 individuals got a temporary housing.
Africatown Plaza is a significant asset in Seattles equitable development landscape with features thatwill make it an arts and cultural destination for the Black community in addition to providing much needed affordable housing.The seven-story, mixed-use building will offer a community room, office and retail spaces, and apartments for households earning up to 60% of Seattles area median income. Selected artwork for the site from local, national, and international artists with a focus on healing and community connection. Completed design and permitting process.
In response to the need for culturally responsive spaces for workforce and business development, The William Grose Center for Cultural Innovationformerly Fire Station No. 6was revitalized, transformed, and officially opened its doors in the summer of 2022.WGC engages, empowers, and uplifts Seattles Black community by providing necessary resources- through the amplification of physical, intellectual and cultural assets-to break into new and emerging industries. The Center continues to function as a hub for entrepreneurship and small business development while serving as a nexus for innovation in Seattles Central District.With a vision fueled by the legacy of early Seattle pioneer, real estate developer and founder of the Central District, William Grose, WGC carries this legacy into the future with an emphasis on innovation through training of the next generation of tech leaders, intentional and diverse programming and community partnerships.
The organizations other program service activities include ACLT safety, Youth Achievement Center, and community events