Victory for Farmworkers: ALAS' 555 Kelly Project Gains Approval!

May 20, 2024

Greetings Community,

After last week’s call by our Founder (Alex Ontiveros) we are excited to share an important update on the 555 Kelly Project (affordable housing for farmworkers) in Half Moon Bay.

As many of you know, Alex, along with community leaders Victoria Sanchez De Alba and Ed Vargas among many others, have collaborated over the past few years with the exceptional leadership team of Ayudando Latinos A Soñar—Dr. Belinda Hernandez-Arriaga, Lilli Rey, and Luis Enrique Bazan—alongside affordable housing consultant Matt Huerta, on this crucial affordable housing initiative for farmworkers. The 555 Kelly Project (www.555kelly.org) has garnered significant support and positive feedback throughout its development. ALAS has also partnered with Mercy Housing as the affordable housing developer and received endorsements from several state and local officials, including Governor Newsom, Congresswoman Anna Eshoo, San Mateo County Supervisor Rey Mueller, and numerous City of Half Moon Bay City Council Members.

Despite facing challenges from the Half Moon Bay Planning Commission and a few NIMBY (Not In My Back Yard) opponents, we are thrilled to announce that the persistent efforts, by the community, have paid off. Thanks to the collective push from our supporters and the crucial backing from Governor Newsom, the 555 Kelly Project has now gained approval by the planning commission!

This project, which will provide 40 units of housing for Half Moon Bay farmworkers in the heart of the city, marks a significant milestone in this journey. It is especially poignant in the wake of the tragic mass shooting that claimed the lives of seven farmworkers and critically injured another, highlighting the urgent need for secure and affordable housing for these front-line vulnerable laborers.

We extend a heartfelt gratitude to everyone who supported this initiative by signing the petition and rallying behind this cause. Your efforts have made a substantial difference, and together, we have achieved a great victory for our community.

Thank you for your continued support!

#JuntosAdelante

Find additional links for this story => https://www.sfgate.com/politics/article/bay-area-city-finally-approves-affordable-housing-19460110.php

https://www.kqed.org/news/11986281/half-moon-bay-farmworker-housing-gains-approval-after-push-by-newsom