BUFFALO, N.Y. (June 16, 2015) — The Buffalo Sabres Foundation, in conjunction with Saving Grace Ministries, Inc. and True Community Development Corporation, today announced the Patriot Heights Apartments Project, which will provide affordable housing for single mothers who are military veterans
Groundbreaking for the project took place today, Tuesday, June 16 at 10 a.m. The renovation will convert the existing building at 347 E. Ferry St. in Buffalo into 16 units of affordable housing, and the property will be run by Saving Grace Ministries, Inc. upon completion. It will also house a community center on the first floor that will be operated by the Resource Council of Western New York.
“We are proud to be a partner in this important project that will help Buffalo’s military veterans in such a profound way,” said Cliff Benson, president of the Buffalo Sabres Foundation. “It’s an honor for us to be part of something that will help our brave veterans, while also continuing the revitalization of our city.”
Saving Grace Ministries, Inc. acquired the property, formerly the Humboldt YMCA, on May 27, 2015 with the financial support of the Buffalo Sabres Foundation member companies and equity partners. The project is also funded in part by the City of Buffalo’s HOME Investment Partnership Program. The partners, in collaboration with the City of Buffalo, will invest a total of $2.7 million into the renovation of the property.
“This project will preserve a historic building, which was one of the earliest African-American YMCAs built in Buffalo,” said Rev. Terry J. King, CEO of Saving Grace Ministries, Inc. “This project represents a historic partnership between the Buffalo Sabres and two agencies that have longstanding ties to Buffalo’s East Side. We are grateful for this opportunity to provide affordable housing to those who have served our country, as well as their families.”
The Buffalo Sabres Foundation member companies that contributed to this project include: First Niagara, the John W. Danforth Company, National Fuel, BlueCross BlueShield of Western New York, New Era Cap Company, Inc. and Kaleida Health.
The Buffalo Sabres Foundation is a New York State not for profit corporation that is committed to stimulating, supporting and encouraging organizations that serve Western New York which are committed to youth hockey initiatives; the health, wellness and education of underprivileged /disadvantaged youth and military personnel; and physically and mentally challenged athlete, by providing financial generosity and other platforms for their endeavors. Through such support these organizations will realize their highest potential, thereby allowing their members to gain the confidence and integrity necessary to succeed in life.
