Esperanza En Escalante (EEE) is a non-profit organization (501c3) formed in 1989 by the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 106 of Tucson Arizona. Located on approximately 19 acres, EEE serves homeless veterans, providing housing, social services, programs and transportation to assist a Veteran’s transition into everyday life. Poster Mirto McDonald has worked with EEE for the last 20 years, helping them grow from 20 units of housing to 150 units of housing; leveraging funds from the Veterans Administration, HUD-CDBG, City of Tucson Section 8, Low Income Housing Tax Credits (with Gorman Company,) Arizona Department of Housing, and Pima County Infrastructure Bonds.

The most recent phase of development includes a central community building and arrangements of four and six unit complexes, for a total of 44 one bedroom units. “Parklets” and shady amenity-rich gathering spaces including BBQs, a fire pit, and even a horseshow toss, are scattered throughout the site to promote community-building and a sense of place. Each unit includes a back porch from the bedroom, providing another opportunity for residents to connect to each other as well as to the lush. Yet low water-use, Sonoran landscaping and environment. This project implements many sustainability-minded features including high-efficiency equipment and fixtures, a photovoltaic system, and passive water-harvesting. With great views of the Santa Cataline Mountains and unique views of the airplane “boneyards” at the adjacent Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, the site is a truly special place.

Location : Tucson, Arizona

Year of Completion : 2017

Size : 39,150 SF – 44 one bedroom units

Cost : $6,300,00