DA, we are proud to partner with SJHI to revitalize neighborhoods and provide opportunities for homeownership,” says Alana Green, CDA Executive Director.
St. Joseph’s Housing Initiative: Building Homes, Building Hope in St. Louis’ Dutchtown Neighborhood
By Michelle Kim, Washington University Gephardt Institute for Civic and Community Engagement 2025 St. Louis Fellow
In the heart of St. Louis’ Dutchtown neighborhood, a faith-based organization is making a big impact. St. Joseph’s Housing Initiative (SJHI) has been transforming affordable houses for first-time home buyers for over six years. And their work is far from over.
A Purposeful Start in Dutchtown
SJHI’s decision to focus on Dutchtown was no coincidence. This densely populated neighborhood has a low homeownership rate compared to renters. It is home to both long-time residents and newcomers, including many immigrants. The historic brick buildings, adorned with intricate brickwork, add to the neighborhood’s charm. However, many of these buildings are vacant or in a state of disrepair. Despite these challenges, Dutchtown is a community rich in history and culture, with bustling commercial corridors like Meramec and Virginia.
Seeing the Need and Potential
Recognizing the need for affordable housing in Dutchtown, SJHI stepped in to help. Since its inception in 2018, SJHI has completed 16 homes, with most located in Dutchtown and others in Baden and Carondelet. Their approach is comprehensive, from acquiring properties through organizations like Legal Services of Eastern Missouri to rebuilding homes from the inside out. Each home, typically a three-bedroom property, is designed with families and generational wealth building in mind. Their largest project to date, a four-bedroom, three-bathroom home on Virginia Avenue, is expected to be completed this August with support from a Community Development Administration (CDA) Neighborhood Transformation Grant for housing production.
Volunteers: The Heartbeat of SJHI
SJHI’s work would not be possible without the dedication of its volunteers. Over 300 volunteers, with a core group of around 100 regulars, have contributed thousands of hours to home renovations. From individuals to major corporations, volunteers play a crucial role in making these houses homes. They are not just building fences; they are building hope.
Collaboration for Success
Collaboration is at the core of SJHI’s success. The organization works closely with other local housing nonprofits, such as DeSales Community Development and Lutheran Development Group, as well as the CDA, to ensure families have access to affordable, safe, and high-quality housing.
Building a Foundation for Stability, Equity, and Community Growth
“Our lane is narrow and deep – we focus on single-family homes and equipping first-time homeowners with everything they need to succeed,” says Christy McCutcheon, Executive Director of SJHI. “We’re not just selling a house; we’re building a foundation for long-term stability, equity, and community growth.”
Join SJHI in Building Homes and Hope
SJHI’s work is far from over, and they welcome anyone who wants to join in their mission. Whether through volunteering or donations, every contribution helps make a difference in the lives of families in Dutchtown and beyond.
Together, We Can Make a Difference
“At CDA, we are proud to partner with SJHI to revitalize neighborhoods and provide opportunities for homeownership,” says Alana Green, CDA Executive Director. With the support of the community, SJHI is making a positive impact in Dutchtown and beyond, one home at a time.
