Resident News
Active Rental Properties/
Happy Residents
Cook Inlet Housing Authority: Sounds like an organization that provides housing opportunities, yes? And, of course, Cook Inlet Housing Authority, (CIHA) does provide plenty of housing opportunities; but at CIHA, that equates to much more than bricks and mortar.
By providing housing, we offer stability and lay a foundation for a better quality of life for our clients. It's this philosophy that has led to steady growth in our Resident Services Program and with this growth, the capability to enrich the lives of our residents through improvements to our facilities, learning opportunities, sharing of interests and just plain fun.
Farmers' Market
This summer, a couple of community minded farmers staged a mini farmers' market on CIHA's East Anchorage Elder Campus. The residents received discount coupons and the farmers brought the fruits (and vegetables) of the labor to sell on-site for the convenience of the elders. The fresh produce was a huge hit, with staples selling out in minutes.
The elders toward the back of the line weren't dissuaded, however. Many of them asked the farmers for recipe ideas and purchased veggies they weren't completely familiar with. Thanks to Vince Lambardo of Palmer and Leonard Peck & Valerie Luczak of Peck Organic Produce in Wasilla for bringing the farmers' market to our residents.
Computer Labs
In August, cable modems were installed in the computer labs at Kenaitze Pointe and Chickaloon Landing properties in Anchorage. GCI contributes the Internet service at these labs in partnership with CIHA.
CIHA has also been fortunate to receive the volunteer services of Larry Spellens, a University of Alaska graduate student, who has assisted CIHA in surveying the residents about their interest in computers, researching software and generally expanding of the computer program for all CIHA rental properties. Thanks, Larry!
Back to School
In late August, the resident children of Strawberry Village Cottages spent a week preparing for the upcoming school-year. The Strawberry Village Cottages Back to School Celebration was a huge success, thanks to the generosity of a number of volunteers and partner non-profit organizations.
On the first day of the celebration, 16 children joined local librarian Kay Myers for stories and a video tour of the Anchorage library. Every child went home with a free book provided by First Book.
On days two and three, 15 children received free haircuts from stylist Denis Knapp. On the final day of the celebration, over 20 kids enjoyed lunches provided by Kid's Cafe, cupcakes and a visit from the Gladys Wood Elementary School Principal, Phillip Schneider.
Thanks to all who donated time and supplies for this important back to school event!
Happy Birthday Kenaitze Pointe!
All of the residents of the East Anchorage Elder Campus were invited to Kenaitze Pointe on September 10 for a birthday party: Kenaitze Pointe is officially one year old! As with any good birthday party, the residents ate cake and ice cream, played party games and generally enjoyed each other's company.
Elder Appreciation
In August, nearly 70 people participated in an Elder Appreciation Day Luncheon sponsored by Seldovia Village Tribe at CIHA's rental property in Seldovia.