What better use of old island acreage than to provide food, shelter and support for folks who are living here? Preliminary outline on the property use by each organization It’s a rare opportunity with great potential for good: OPAL is collaborating with the Orcas Island Community Foundation, the Food Bank, the Community Resource Center and […]
The “Hidden Homelessness”
Homelessness on Orcas looks different than in urban areas. Many rural homeless individuals live in places we do not see. They may be in the woods on private property, cars, sheds, tents and other places not intended for permanent habitation. Many live in substandard housing or RVs without adequate heat, water or septic. On Orcas, […]
Working for the Long Haul: Your Gifts Create Healthier Housing
The last two years have provided OPAL with the opportunity to conserve long-term rental housing on the island. Nineteen affordable rentals, at Northern Heights across from the library and on Mt. Baker Road near the airport, came on the market in 2021. With some timely help from you and other supporters, OPAL purchased the properties […]
OPAL and PSCCU Explore Joint Venture
Puget Sound Cooperative Credit Union (PSCCU) recently purchased the building at 221 A Street in Eastsound, where the post office is located. The credit union wants the current business tenants to remain in the building and plans to establish a retail branch for the credit union on the same property. PSCCU also wants to help […]
OPAL’s Purchase of the Northern Heights Apartments is Fully Funded!
Thanks to the support of many islanders, the Northern Heights Apartments across from the library will continue to be year-round and affordable rental housing. OPAL Community Land Trust will purchase and then renovate the property. The current tenants will be able to stay. After learning last December that the Washington State Housing Trust Fund would […]
Islanders fund purchase of affordable rentals
Motivated by their concern about the loss of affordable housing for local families, islanders Maia and John Vechey and Dave Roberts partnered with OPAL Community Land Trust in early May to buy seven apartments on Mt. Baker Road. “When these units went on the market, there was the very real possibility that the people living […]
OPAL Gets Gift from Brita Brahce
In the spirit of the holidays, Brita Brahce made a generous donation to OPAL, helping to bring the April’s Grove affordable rental neighborhood one step closer to reality. Brita and her story were featured in an article in Orcas Issues. Margie Doyle writes, “A young woman values the community and mission of OPAL Community Land […]
OPAL Now Owns Land for April’s Grove!
Affordable Rental Housing Planned In August, OPAL purchased 3.8 acres of land in Eastsound for April’s Grove, The property is located on North Beach Road, directly across the street from Children’s House. Plans include 45 rental townhouses that are affordable for individuals and families whose incomes range from $12,000 to $70,000 per year. The […]
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