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Bon Jovi helps open low-income housing in Philly

The 55-unit JBJ Soul Homes opened in the Francisville neighbourhood after about 18 months of construction.

On Bon Jovi’s hit tune Who Says You Can’t Go Home? took on new meaning on Tuesday as the rock star cut the ribbon on a namesake housing development for low-income residents and the formerly homeless in Philadelphia.

The 55-unit JBJ Soul Homes opened in the Francisville neighbourhood after about 18 months of construction. Bon Jovi’s Soul Foundation provided the lead gift for the $16.6 million complex, which he hopes will offer tenants the support they need to get back on their feet.

“This is not a handout, it’s just a hand up,” Bon Jovi said. “This opportunity for them is special and it’s not easy to come by.”

The four-story building, which was financed by public and private funds, also includes retail and office space. Residents will receive social services from Project HOME, a nonprofit dedicated to ending homelessness in Philadelphia. HOME stands for Housing, Opportunities, Medical and Education.

Residents of JBJ Soul Homes will have access to basic medical care, employment training and educational classes; they are required to contribute part of their income toward rent.

JBJ Soul Homes functions as a small but crucial safety net “by providing shelter and an integrated array of services to so many of Philadelphia’s most vulnerable youth and adults,” he said.