Buena Esperanza provides Permanent Supportive Housing for formerly homeless individuals and veterans and those living with a mental illness. A former Econo Lodge in Anaheim, CA, this motel conversion offers residents stable housing, an engaging community space with opportunities for socialization, and onsite supportive services provided by Jamboree, the County of Orange, and the Department of Veterans Affairs.
This patch of land has a place in Southern California history. More than a century before it became a motel conversion with purpose, this historical property was part of a sprawling ranch called La Buena Esperanza, meaning "The Good Hope." It is Jamboree’s hope that the heritage of this property will bring much good hope to its residents.
The transformation of this Spanish-style commercial motel building to a welcoming residential apartment community features indoor and outdoor amenities, including a spacious courtyard and community center. Each fully furnished studio comes with a small kitchen and a full, private bath. Located in the West Anaheim neighborhood, Buena Esperanza is a very short walking or biking distance to public transportation, local shops and services. Peter Marshall Park, Boisseranc Park, and Hansen Park are also nearby.
Buena Esperanza is Anaheim’s first motel conversion under the city’s motel conversion ordinance, another element of the city’s efforts to provide creative housing solutions for those experiencing homelessness or at risk of experiencing homelessness. These studio apartments offer a stable environment for residents to live independently and have the opportunity to thrive in their local neighborhood.
As Permanent Supportive Housing, residents coming from homelessness and living with a clinical mental health diagnosis from a healthcare provider qualify for Buena Esperanza through the Mental Health Services Act (MHSA). They are referred by participating agencies such as the County of Orange and the Department of Veterans Affairs, contingent on credit and background checks. There is a live/work preference for Anaheim residents and workers referred by the Anaheim Housing Authority.
Residents then sign an apartment lease that outlines community guidelines and may remain in their apartment long-term or as long as they follow these community guidelines.
Jamboree and the City of Anaheim have worked together to prioritize a quality design that creates a safe, attractive, and healthy living environment for residents, and will continue to ensure that the property remains a long-standing asset to its residents and the surrounding community.
