The Affordable Housing Tax Credit Coalition has recognized Tawi Kaan Apartments as a 2025 recipient of the Charles L. Edson Recognition of Housing Tax Credit Excellence in the Native American Housing category.
The award honors Charles L. Edson, “an affordable housing luminary” who served as transition director for the Department of Housing and Urban Development under former President Jimmy Carter.
Presented annually for 31 years, the award highlights housing developments that “strengthen communities, improve resident opportunities and support economies in urban, suburban and rural communities across the country.” Recipients were selected by a “panel of experts” across 10 categories, according to a coalition press release.
Recipients were announced at a Capitol Hill ceremony attended by members of Congress and housing leaders.
“Everywhere I go in Colorado I hear about the rising cost of housing, and we must work together to find real solutions,” said Sen. Michael Bennet. “I am pleased to congratulate the two Colorado properties that are being honored by the Affordable Housing Tax Credit Coalition: The Launchpad in Colorado Springs, which will provide needed support and stability for young adults coming out of the foster care system, and Tawi Kaan Apartments in Cortez, which will serve the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe and provide permanent supportive housing for homeless and formerly homeless families. Innovative projects like these help ensure Colorado families can continue to call our state home.”
Tawi Kaan Apartments is a 42-unit complex at 560 E. Empire St. in Cortez. The Ute phrase “Tawi Kaan” means “our home.” The complex includes 14 one-bedroom, 14 two-bedroom and 14 three-bedroom units, all restricted to 30% of area median income and prioritizes Ute community members. It opened Oct. 15, 2024.
The project receives subsidies from the Colorado Department of Local Affairs. The Ute Mountain Ute Tribe provides a full-time tribal liaison to connect Native American residents with tribal resources. Partners include BlueLine Development Inc., The Piñon Project Family Resource Center and Boston Financial.
Since 1986, the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit has financed more than 4 million homes for over 9.28 million low-income households, serving formerly homeless individuals and families, people with disabilities, veterans and senior citizens.
“The Low-Income Housing Tax Credit is the most powerful tool we have for addressing the growing housing affordability crisis and was recently expanded to meet our nation’s growing need. This year’s recipients showcase some of the best of what the Housing Credit can do, more of which will now be possible,” AHTCC Chief Executive Officer Emily Cadik said. “Congratulations to these outstanding properties and organizations that are addressing the nation’s housing crisis and creating opportunities for residents.”
More information about the 2025 awards is available at www.taxcreditcoalition.org/recognition-of-housing-tax-credit-excellence.
