Meet Tamaica

Tamaica and her three daughters have been living at Broadleaf Arbor for almost two years. Just recently, they moved into one of the property’s townhome units and are enjoying the quiet atmosphere and extra space. Before Broadleaf Arbor, the family lived in a two-bedroom apartment, and transitioning to a three-bedroom was a big step—they gained a lot more space and additional amenities. Now, the family enjoys an extra bedroom and the added convenience of an in-unit washer and dryer.

For nearly three years, Tamaica has been using a voucher from Network for Oregon Affordable Housing (NOAH), the project’s co-developer. This has made it possible for her to move into Broadleaf Arbor, despite the upfront costs. Additionally, the location of Broadleaf Arbor has made daily life easier for Tamaica and her daughters. The girls can get to school more quickly than before, saving time in the mornings. The family lives within walking distance of the store, the clinic, and other essential places. Everything they need is much closer and more accessible than it used to be. As an added comfort, Tamaica now lives next door to her best friend.

With support from the resident services team, Tamaica and her daughters were able to move into their townhome from another Broadleaf apartment in just two days. The services team sprang into action—shampooing carpets and painting walls to make the space feel fresh and welcoming. Now, with their own patio just steps from the community garden beds, Tamaica is excited to start planting more regularly. Tamaica and her daughters remain actively involved in Broadleaf’s resident programs. Thanks to lead resident services provider EngAGE NW, they’ve taken part in community potlucks, yoga classes, barbecues, art sessions, and holiday celebrations.

Tamaica and her daughters have found a true sense of home at Broadleaf Arbor. Living with sickle cell disease, Tamaica often needs quiet time to care for her health and to be close to her daughters, who also share the condition. As one of her daughter’s full-time caregivers, the family needed housing that could support both accessibility and safety—and Broadleaf Arbor met those needs. While the community was thoughtfully designed to foster connection, it also provides peace and privacy. For Tamaica and her family, the townhomes—nestled a bit farther from the site’s center—offer the perfect balance of comfort and calm.