In its largest project to date, the nonprofit House of Ruth opened a three-story, 40-unit housing complex dubbed the Red Key Landing for people affected by HIV in Louisville, Kentucky, reports WDRB.com. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held this week with city officials and guests.
House of Ruth has provided housing and support for people affected by HIV since its founding in 1992.
In a preview of the complex posted last month on Facebook, the nonprofit wrote: “Big things are happening at House of Ruth! Our new office and food pantry are officially open, and applications are now being accepted for Red Key Landing Apartments, with new residents moving in soon. This is a huge step forward in creating safe, supportive housing, and we’re so proud to see it coming to life.”
The complex cost $10.2 million, according to WDRB, which noted that many of the funds were allocated from the American Rescue Plan following the COVID-19 pandemic.
“It’s safe, quality, affordable, frankly beautiful housing that most have never known,” said House of Ruth executive director Lisa Sutton. “Despite this great work, we still have a housing waiting list for our supportive and affordable housing.”
A March 12 follow-up post by House of Ruth included images from the ribbon-cutting ceremony.
“We want to extend a heartfelt THANK YOU to everyone who joined us for the Red Key Landing Ribbon Cutting Ceremony,” it read. “Your presence, support, and enthusiasm helped make the event a great success and a truly memorable celebration. From community partners to friends and neighbors, we are so grateful for each person who took part in this important milestone. Your support strengthens our mission and inspires us every day.”
HouseofRuth.net offers a history and snapshot of the organization and the community it serves:
Founded by eight long-time friends, four of whom were Sisters of Charity of Nazareth, House of Ruth incorporated in 1992.
The founders are Sharan Benton (deceased); Anne Bindner (deceased); Liz Bindner (deceased); Elizabeth Blandford, SCN; Sharon Cook; Sharon Gray, SCN; Rebecca Miles, SCN; and Marilyn Spink, SCN (deceased). They united around an unmet social service need locally — women and their children who were affected by HIV/AIDS. The service population has expanded to include men living with HIV/AIDS. The name “House of Ruth” is a reference to the biblical Book of Ruth. The name symbolizes love and mercy for all people.
The number of families and individuals who come for services has consistently grown. In its first year, House of Ruth served eight families. In 2020, House of Ruth served over 600 individuals.
As the numbers grew, so did the need for more office space. In the fall of 1998, House of Ruth received a tremendous gift — the St. Matthew United Church of Christ property in the Shelby Park neighborhood. Following renovation, House of Ruth staff moved into their new offices in the old church in October 2000. The renovated church building has continued to house House of Ruth administrative staff to this day.
In February 2001, House of Ruth assumed ownership of Glade House, a shelter in Old Louisville, and four condominiums for HIV-positive individuals at the request of another nonprofit, Community Health Trust. Today, House of Ruth owns 17 scattered-site housing units for individuals and families affected by HIV/AIDS and partners with Louisville Metro Government to provide rental subsidies for another 25 households who rent from community landlords.
