Independence Place I is a part of the nonprofit Calcutta House and provides four permanent housing units in North Philadelphia for homeless individuals diagnosed with HIV/AIDS. The network of HIV/AIDS and homelessness service organizations makes referrals.

The permanent housing units at Independence Place I are one-bedroom units. The building that they are in is owned and operated by Calcutta House; it also houses the transitional housing program Calcutta runs. Residents in Independence Place I are sometimes former residents of Calcutta’s transitional housing program who wanted to live independently, but remain part of the community.

Housing units 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.

After entering Independence Place I, an initial service plan is drawn up to address residents’ particular needs, and it is reviewed every quarter. Some necessary services are available through Calcutta House, like case management and referrals to medical help. There is also a garden on-site and residents are encouraged to help it thrive. Outside sources provide other services including volunteer outreach, substance abuse treatment, mental health supportive services, transportation, meals, and clothing.

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