Have you ever noticed the apartments at 511 Centennial Ave.?

Their landscaped grounds and well maintained exterior are in keeping with the other residences in the area and yet they are dramatically different.

Owned and operated by the Union Aid Society, these 22 units are a part of the organization's overall mission of Neighbors Helping Neighbors.

Created in 1898, Union Aid Society began with a simple goal: to assist those in need. Since the beginning, the Union Aid Society has helped feed families as well as supplement education costs and utility bills.

Still, board members from the early 1970’s felt there was more they could do for the residents of the 11 surrounding communities.

Identifying the need for affordable housing, quietly and with compassion, a building committee was formed to pursue this goal.

They secured the land, raised the capital, commissioned plans and built eight one-bedroom apartments. Not content to rest on their laurels, the board added 12 more units during the 1980s. A Commons room, two additional apartments and an elevator were added in 2009.            

Preference is given to those over 62 who currently reside in the Quaker Valley area whose income meets set guidelines. The secured building boasts many amenities and the rent includes all utilities (except telephone and cable). 

Anyone who is interested in learning more about this community resource is invited to contact the Union Aid Society at 412-741-9240 for more information. From the foundation set by those first board members from long ago--the mission continues.