RHF Celebrates Opening of Affordable Senior Housing Community

Retirement Housing Foundation (RHF)—based in Long Beach, Calif.—Baldwin Park, Calif., Mayor Daniel Damian, residents, and community partners recently joined together for a ceremonial ribbon-cutting and dedication to celebrate the opening of Central Metro Place, a new affordable senior housing community for adults age 62 and older.

The $24.4 million community at 14513 Central Ave. includes 54 modern one-bedroom apartments and a first floor designed as a central hub of activity for residents. Shared spaces include a community room with a party kitchen, an arts and crafts room, an exercise room, a computer room, and a laundry room, along with a reception area where residents welcome visitors and meet family and friends for pickups. Outside, residents share a courtyard with planter boxes for growing vegetables and flowers.

“Central Metro Place brings quality, affordable housing to Baldwin Park, helping address this critical need in the region. It shows what’s possible when a city, its partners, and a mission-driven nonprofit come together to help older adults thrive,” said Stuart Hartman, President & CEO of RHF. “Our residents have quality homes they can afford, on-site supportive services, and access to Metrolink and community resources within walking distance. We are proud to welcome them home.”

The opening comes as Los Angeles County continues to experience significant growth in its older population. The county’s population age 65 and older is projected to grow to more than 2.32 million by 2040, a 61 percent increase since 2020, according to a Public Policy Institute of California. This shift is increasing the need for housing that connects older adults with services, transit, and opportunities to remain independent and engaged.

“Central Metro Place is an important investment in Baldwin Park’s seniors,” said Baldwin Park Mayor Daniel Damian. “These are quality homes our residents can afford, steps from public transportation and close to the services they rely on. It means older adults can stay in the community they love, near family and friends.”

Central Metro Place was built with transit at its front door. Located directly across the street from the Baldwin Park Metrolink station, the community gives residents convenient access to shops, restaurants, and regional transit, keeping them connected to appointments, family, and services without needing a car.

“Moving to Central Metro Place gave me more than an apartment, it’s my home,” said Ana Kanellos, Central Metro Place resident. “I have neighbors I know by name, a place to spend time together, staff that help me with my needs, and a community garden that I get to enjoy. I feel like I belong here.”

The new community was purposefully designed to help residents age in place. Half of the apartments are accessible for individuals with mobility impairments, and a small percentage are designed for residents with visual or hearing impairments. Two elevators serve all floors, and an on-site manager’s office, mail room, and reception office are located on the first floor.