By Williamena Kwapo | OBSERVER Staff Writer
The nonprofit Project Access has expanded services to Roseville, building on its existing work in Sacramento and other Northern California cities to reach more families living in affordable housing.
Project Access places full-time resident service coordinators in affordable housing developments to provide free, on-site programs tailored to the needs of children, families, and seniors. These services focus on economic stability, education for youth and families, health and wellness, and community building. Programs include after-school tutoring, summer camps, job readiness workshops, and health-related education.
The organization currently operates at The Creek @ 2645 Apartments and Greenbriar Apartments in Sacramento. Its newest site is at Prospera at Fiddyment in Roseville, where there is a particular focus on supporting immigrant and refugee families.
“I see myself in these families,” said Crystal Goodridge, the Roseville location’s resident service coordinator. An immigrant from Liberia, Goodridge said her personal experience informs her approach. “I remember the struggles of adapting to a new country, and now I can help others navigate those same challenges.”
At the Roseville center, services range from arts and crafts and literacy support to workshops on navigating life in the United States. “We’re here as a resource center. Nothing’s too big, nothing’s too small,” Goodridge said.
Services are designed to be comprehensive and flexible based on each community’s needs. Project Access uses surveys, focus groups, and ongoing assessments to shape and evaluate programming.
“When you’re new to a country, it’s hard to open up,” Goodridge added. “So giving them a space where they can come and relax, get to know me, learn crafts, and learn to read is important.”
The Roseville expansion is part of Project Access’ larger effort to reach underserved populations in affordable housing communities across California.