...begins around 1968, when a coalition of faith-based and charitable organizations – First Presbyterian Church in San Anselmo, St John’s Episcopal, St Anselm’s Catholic, and the Ross Valley Rotary - came together to help meet the housing needs of our community’s low-income seniors.
The result was the Ross Valley Ecumenical Housing Association. The new non-profit envisioned a unique approach to communal senior housing where residents would have a private room, along with several common areas to foster a sense of community. Family-style dinners would be provided six nights a week and residents would share responsibility for some of the cleaning and upkeep. High quality, affordable, independent living for low-income seniors – what a concept!
There were significant hurdles to turning that mission into reality. Neighborhood surveys were done, money raised, and liaisons developed with members of the San Anselmo Town Council and the County to help with permits and funds. In 1980, those efforts paid off when a home was purchased on Tamalpais Avenue. A few years later, “Tam House” accepted its first residents. It wasn’t long before all the rooms were filled. Rent was just $350 a month!
As Marin’s housing costs steadily climbed, so too did the need for more affordable options for seniors. Thanks to the invaluable generosity of individual donors and local organizations, and grants from the Marin Community Foundation, “Tam 2” opened its doors on Woodland Avenue in 2007. Designed by local architect Jeff Kroot, Tam 2 provided the same amenities as Tam 1 to eleven additional seniors. Although many local residents were initially uncomfortable with the idea, the Town Council saw the need and approved the plans. The thoughtful operation of the houses switched public opposition to admiration and support.
