Rajo

Rajo (formerly the Cesar Apartments) was acquired by Home Forward in December 2024 as part of an innovative strategy to bring new affordable housing online more quickly and cost-effectively than new construction by taking advantage of favorable market conditions. This 47-unit development was built in 2022 with a modern design, in an amenity-rich location near the intersection of SE Hawthorne Ave and SE Cesar E. Chavez Blvd. Converting the project to Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) required minimal changes to the structure and layout, and PSH residents exiting homelessness started moving in in January 2026.

 Rajo, which is Somali for "hope," includes a mix of studios, 1-, and 2-bedrooms, all of which include deeply subsidized rents and wrap-around supportive services. Residents are served by the frequent 14 and 75 bus lines steps from their front doors, and Fred Meyer is just across the street, with Laurelhurst Park and Sewallcrest Park within half a mile.

PHB supported the Rajo acquisition with a mix of Metro Affordable Housing Bond funds designated for PSH pilot projects, and funds passed through from Multnomah County. The project is also supported by Regional Long Term Rent Assistance and Metro Supportive Housing Services funds from the Multnomah County Homeless Services Department (HSD).

Sponsor Website

Building Profile