Nonprofit receives more funding toward rehabbing Citrus Heights senior facility

By Sara Beth Williams–
The nonprofit, Hope Cooperative, has secured another $2.5 million in funds for a permanent supportive housing project at Auburn Oaks Senior Living in Citrus Heights. The awarded allocation, recently approved by the Sacramento County Board of Supervisors, comes from Mental Health Services Act funding.

The nonprofit announced plans last year to completely rehaul the aged facility, as well as offer 24-hour support, security, and intensive case management services for some of its future residents. Hope Cooperative also previously received a $24.8 million Community Care Expansion grant from the California Department of Social Services in 2024.

The project will create 88 housing units for older adults who are at risk of homelessness. By early spring, 50 residents are expected to live at Auburn Oaks, according to a Sacramento County press release.

The 88 new housing units will include 40 studios converted from shared assisted living rooms, 44 additional studios, and four one-bedroom apartments. Rehabilitation will also enhance the lobby, kitchen, and shared spaces, “integrating energy-efficient designs,” the release said.

Up to 30 units will be allocated toward accommodating those with behavioral health needs, referred from the Sacramento Behavioral Health full-service Partnership. Another 28 units will accommodate those referred from Sacramento Steps Forward. Lastly, up to 30 additional units will be allocated for those referred from the Sacramento County Department of Family, Child, and Adult Services.

After expressing multiple concerns to Hope Cooperative and asking them to return a second time to address various project concerns, the Citrus Heights City Council also awarded Hope Cooperative $500,000 in grant funding last fall.

An investigation by The Sentinel at Auburn Oaks Senior Living in late 2023 found multiple residents had received eviction notices but were unaware that they had even owed thousands of dollars in back rent. According to the city, the existing assisted living units at Auburn Oaks were only filled with about 20 residents as of August 2024. The same number of residents still remain, according to the Jan. 29 press release.

“The collaboration between Sacramento County, SHRA, and Hope Cooperative makes it possible to serve residents at Auburn Oaks with dignity, respect, and compassion,” the release said.