Grand opening for North Austin apartment complex to help people exiting homelessness

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AUSTIN, Texas — A new apartment complex in North Austin will help put a roof over the heads of people who have experienced homelessness.

The Espero Rutland had its grand opening on Wednesday. It will be run by nonprofit Caritas of Austin and house 171 residents who were formerly living on the streets.

The complex includes studio-style apartments that are income-based. Rent is never more than 30% of a resident's monthly income. It's funded through private investors and City of Austin bonds.

"When you haven't had that and all of the sudden you have place where you can be safe, it makes a huge difference," Kathryn Quinn, president and CEO of Caritas of Austin, said.

Felicia Perkins is a resident at Espero Rutland.

"I have been helped, found a place to stay get off those streets," she said. "With that being said, I get to spend time with my godson. I have seven grandchildren, and now they are able to come see Mama."

Perkins said she is so thankful after falling on some tough times. She had been living on the streets on and off for 20 years and also suffered a brain aneurysm.

"I have been looking at where I have been and where I am come from and where I am at, and it's awesome. Right now I am overjoyed. I am overwhelmed. If I was young enough, I would do some cartwheels and handstands. And now I can just smile for you, tell you, it’s a good feeling," Perkins said.

Perkins said the apartments are great. 

"It is quiet, clean and comfortable. It is a nice environment," she said. "I can flip some flapjacks for them and all that good stuff for them, so it means a lot to me. Not to be cold – oh God, I am tired of being cold."

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