Project Description: In December of 1995, Townspeople created San Diego's first independent apartment complex for low-income persons living with HIV/AIDS, which consists of 8 one-bedroom units. The Wilson Avenue Apartments are located in the City Heights neighborhood of San Diego within walking distance to key bus routes, so that residents without cars can effectively commute to needed services. Each of the complex's 8 units includes a living room, bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen with new appliances. Shared amenities include a patio area with a colorful wall mural and a barbeque. The complex is protected by a 24-hour gated security system as well as an on-site manager.

The project is an example of the Supportive Housing model, in which residents with special needs or disabilities live independently, following all of the provisions of a lease, and receive supportive services from local service providers, which help them maintain housing on a permanent basis.

Financing: Townspeople obtained project funding for the Wilson Avenue Apartments from the San Diego Housing Commission (SDHC), and Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA). Townspeople also recently rehabilitated the property with funding from Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) from City Council Member Toni Atkins and funding from San Diego County Supervisor Ron Roberts.