Neoma
The building formerly known as “Sierra Place” now has a new name! We’re calling it “Neoma”. Neoma is feminine and represents kindness and the new moon – the first phase of the lunar cycle. The new moon symbolizes new beginnings and a fresh chance at life for families in need. With Neoma, we welcome residents into their new home, which once served a different purpose as office space. NEOMA is entering a new phase as a hub of support and opportunity for families who have waited too long for affordable housing.
With Project Thrive HomeSpace and Inn from the Cold invite you to rethink community and support this essential downtown Calgary housing initiative. Conceived as a practical and creative partnership to directly address issues in our city including lack of affordable housing options, depressed economic conditions, and the competition for funding between community organizations, Project Thrive is so much more than a typical fundraising campaign: it’s a holistic approach to housing insecurity for families who need it the most, a call to action to reinvigorate the downtown core, and an investment in the city’s future. Shelter, transitional housing, affordable housing and supports, all under one roof.
The Vision—Rethinking Community
Demonstrating leadership and innovation, two non-profit organizations focused on housing insecurity and homelessness and have combined their areas of expertise for a first-of-its-kind, made-in-Calgary solution: the conversion of a vacant downtown office space into shelter and affordable housing for more than 180 Calgarians in need.
Situated in a prime location with easy access to transit and essential amenities, Neoma (formerly known as Sierra Place), at 706 7 Ave SW, is a vacant downtown tower perfect for a retrofit, providing over 80 units of affordable housing, as well as a childcare center, family shelter, and programming space.
Within 12 months (move-in dates are slated for fall 2022), the conversion will provide housing for vulnerable populations including low-income families and individuals such as seniors, adults with disabilities, Indigenous people, and newcomers to Canada, creating a tangible difference in the quality of life for residents and helping moving families to independence.