
Amid continuous concerns over the Bay Area's housing crisis, Milpitas has marked a significant milestone with the grand opening of Sango Court. This affordable housing complex promises to offer relief to scores of residents in dire need of stable accommodation. Among the new tenants is Angelique Chisom, who, after eight tumultuous years of homelessness, found sanctuary in what she now calls home at Sango Court. According to the County of Santa Clara, Chisom has shared her journey, saying, "It was rough, real rough," reflecting on the period she spent without a permanent place to lay her head. Chisom credits the nonprofit Abode Services for helping her to finally "be able to get a place on my own again."
The celebration was not only a victory for Chisom but also for the cumulative efforts of the multiple partners involved in the project. The intricate weave of collaboration involves Abode, Santa Clara County, the City of Milpitas, and the developer Resources for Community Development, among others. The support from the county's purse was significant, as it allocated $16 million from the $950 million Measure A Affordable Housing Bond towards this development. Supervisor Otto Lee emphasized the project's alignment with the original vision for Measure A, saying, "With the opening of Sango Court, we are on track to exceed our affordable housing goals," as per the County of Santa Clara.
Featuring 102 affordable housing units, including studios and apartments with up to three bedrooms, Sango Court offers many amenities and sustainable features like solar panels and electric-vehicle charging stations. This new complex is also conveniently located far from the Millbrae BART Station.
A unique aspect of Sango Court is that it dedicates a substantial part of its capacity to serving those with specific needs. Forty-four units are reserved for permanent supportive housing for individuals and families emerging from homelessness, and an additional seven are for unhoused veterans. More than a mere housing solution, Sango Court strives to offer a healing environment.