Community Housing & Resources (CHR) celebrated a major milestone on Sept. 4 with a groundbreaking ceremony for their new $7 million affordable housing apartment complex on Sanibel. This new Riverview building will rise from the ashes of the original Riverview apartments, which were heavily damaged by Hurricane Ian in 2022.
CHR demolished the old building and launched a capital campaign to fund the reconstruction. The new Riverview will feature 15 modern, one-bedroom, one-bath units designed to better withstand severe weather conditions.
“This project is more than just a replacement for what was lost—it’s a testament to resilience,” said CHR Executive Director Nicole Decker-McHale. “Our vision is to rebuild stronger homes for those who make this community thrive, and to ensure seniors can age in place with dignity.”
Decker-McHale also shared that the capital campaign has already raised an impressive $6.8 million, with support coming from individuals, businesses, and volunteers alike. “What truly matters is the spirit of this community—the families, businesses, and volunteers who have supported this cause, even while facing their own challenges,” she said.
CHR Board Chair Roger Grogman credited the nonprofit’s supporters and the “community of doers” for their contributions to the success of the project. “Sanibel is fortunate to have such great leadership. The real challenge isn’t having a vision, it’s making it happen,” he remarked.
Among the key supporters were Bill and Laurie Harkey, local donors who contributed $1 million to the campaign. “This project will make a real difference in the lives of people right here on the island,” Bill Harkey said.
Sanibel Mayor Mike Miller emphasized the importance of affordable housing for local workers, noting that the city provides nearly $500,000 in funding to CHR. “CHR is essential to the community—providing homes for the people who are the backbone of our economy,” he said.
Wanda McKittrick, a preschool teacher at the Children’s Education Center of the Island (CECI), shared her personal connection to Riverview. After losing her apartment due to Hurricane Ian, McKittrick found new housing through CHR. “Even when I was displaced, CHR kept checking in on me. They truly care about the people they serve,” she said.
The groundbreaking ceremony featured refreshments from A Bit of Bailey’s, including chicken salad, bagels, fruit, and beverages.
Construction of the new Riverview complex is expected to take approximately one year. For more information or to contribute to the capital campaign, visit sancapchr.org or call 239-472-1189.
Location: Riverview, 1517 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel.
