Providence, RI To kick off the launch of the newly developed Joseph Caffey Apartments and Townhomes, Citizens will spotlight the site’s new digital learning center, which was financed as part of the bank’s $300 million Economic Opportunity Fund initiative, a new template for how banks can support affordable housing and close the economic gap that exists in historically underserved communities by providing enhanced facilities and services.

Citizens provided a $500,000 investment to build the new technology center at the Jordan Caffey Apartments, fund computer equipment, year-round technology maintenance and WiFi, and deliver ongoing training opportunities to provide residents with digital services and resources to achieve independence, self-sufficiency, and overall well-being.

Through the funding, residents will have access to one-on-one workforce development support that will utilize the technology room to help with employment opportunities including job search and interview preparedness as well as financial literacy counseling and coaching services provided by Citizens and other community partners. Youth services and education support will also be offered to school-aged children with the goal of providing a network of support, structure, and exposure that facilitates the development of life skills and values and provides an academic foundation for them to recognize their full potential.

Citizens has provided $20 million in financing to support the construction of the Caffey development which is adding 79 units of new affordable housing to the Upper South Providence neighborhood. Homes will be available to individuals and families making 30%-80% of the Area Median Income, which for a two-person household is between $23,200 and $61,900.