THE STORY
 

Iluma represents a transformative architectural achievement in the heart of Stanton, CA, where the former 1987 Stanton Inn & Suites has been reimagined into a vibrant community for veterans and those who were formerly homeless. Developed in partnership with Jamboree Housing Corporation, the County of Orange, the City of Stanton, and the State Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD), the three-story development spans 1.02 acres at 7161 Katella Avenue. Located two miles from Clara Vista, the site was turned into temporary housing for the unhoused through Project Roomkey, a lifesaving state response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

WHA’s involvement through Project Homekey took the buildings from a temporary solution to a permanent supportive housing project. The fully renovated site now offers a long-term supportive housing solution with 71 studio and one-bedroom apartments, each equipped with kitchenettes. The former motel lobby has been transformed into a vibrant community center that includes offices for service staff, a kitchen, a TV lounge, a conference room, and a computer room. An adjacent outdoor courtyard with seating, barbecues, and tables serves as a gathering place for residents. The Spanish style exterior has been completely refreshed.

Integral to Iluma’s success is its comprehensive supportive services, provided by Jamboree’s dedicated Community Impact team. This team includes a full-time case manager and a full-time Supportive Service Coordinator, offering on-site support to residents. The services are designed to create a stable environment, facilitating successful transitions for formerly homeless individuals into permanent housing. The community building serves as a hub for these services, offering spaces for counseling, group activities, and social interaction, which contribute to the overall well-being of the residents.

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