Four New Permanently Affordable Homes for New Americans in Montpelier

Downstreet Housing & Community Development (Downstreet) and the Central Vermont Refugee Action Network (CVRAN) celebrated the opening of Randall Apartments, a newly renovated building providing four permanently affordable homes for New American families in Montpelier. The project marks an important step toward expanding safe, stable housing opportunities for refugees and asylum seekers in Central Vermont.

The journey to transform the project into a welcoming home for families seeking refuge began with a shared vision of creating inclusive communities where everyone has access to safe and affordable housing. This project was made possible through the collaborative efforts of Downstreet and CVRAN, along with generous support from the Vermont Housing & Conservation Board (VHCB) Innovation Funds, the Montpelier Housing Trust Fund, the Vermont Housing Improvement Program, 3E Thermal, and the Vermont Community Loan Fund (VCLF).

“By pairing permanent affordability with CVRAN’s deep community support, we’re not just opening doors—we’re creating lasting stability and belonging for new Vermonters,” said Angie Harbin, Executive Director of Downstreet.

The Randall Apartments were transformed from units in poor condition into safe, modern homes through lifesafety upgrades and thoughtful design improvements. Today, they stand as a foundation for families building new lives in Montpelier.

"We are incredibly grateful to partner with Downstreet on projects like this one to increase access to affordable housing for all,” said Ali Zenie, CVRAN Executive Director. “We are working together to ensure that Washington County is a place where refugees, asylum seekers, and all Vermonters feel a sense of safety and belonging as they set down roots in our community."

The completion of Randall Apartments reaffirms a shared commitment to creating inclusive communities where everyone, regardless of background or circumstance, can find a place to call home. Together, we stand united in our commitment to building a brighter future for all.