The Asociación de Puertorriqueños en Marcha, Inc. (APM Inc.), a nonprofit organization, runs the Esperanza Shelter Plus Care program, which operates ten permanent housing units for homeless people who have contracted HIV/AIDS. The community of HIV/AIDS and homelessness service organizations make referrals. The AIDS Activities Coordinating Office, part of the City of Philadelphia government, helps review applications.

Esperanza offers two kinds of housing: six one-bedroom units and four two-bedroom units. Housing units are scattered through the city and are inspected every year to make sure they are up to code. Residents contribute 30% of their income to rent, although this can be reduced if a resident’s income increases above certain levels.

Since Esperanza runs on a Tenant-based Assistance grant, residents live in housing owned and operated by outside contractors. To help residents acclimate to the landlord/tenant relationship housing counseling is available prior to moving in, and during their stay. Counseling also helps residents know what their rights and responsibilities are as tenants. Outside sources provide other services including volunteer outreach, case management, substance abuse treatment, HIV/AIDS medical diagnostic services, mental health supportive services, transportation, meals, and clothing.

One Neighborhood developed this summary. If you are an employee of APM Inc., contact hello@oneneighborhood.org to update this page.