Jerusalem House Family Program

The Jerusalem House Family Program serves women who have HIV/AIDS and their children (some of whom also have HIV/AIDS), who would otherwise be homeless in Atlanta, Georgia. Many of these families are able to live together for the first time. Jerusalem House (JH) helps the women stabilize their medical condition and learn parenting skills. Those who are able are taught the skills necessary to move on to more independent housing. The ones whose medical condition precludes their moving on are able to die with dignity surrounded by people who love them. The JH Premiere Learning Center with it's structure, tutors, and computers gives the children the attention they need to catch up with their peers at school.

The facility consists of an historic home and two newer school structures. The school buildings were renovated to accommodate 12 dwelling units along with a common dining/meeting area, storage, laundry, computer learning center, guest bed and bath, indoor recreation area, and playground. The historic home houses the common space for the residents, a "clothes closet" for donated clothing, and office space for on-site staff.

The interior public and private spaces of the facility are warm and welcoming. Donated antique furnishings add to the ambiance. Original art has been donated by female artists all over the country and is placed throughout the facility, including residents' apartments.

The project received an award from the Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation for an Outstanding Rehabilitation Project.


Source: Design Matters: Best Practices in Affordable Housing, City Design Center at the University of Chicago.