In a recent interview, Steve Gunther, President and CEO of the Christian organization Maryvale, addressed the community’s concerns regarding the development plans for Laboure Hall, located at 7600 Graves Avenue. Maryvale has submitted a proposal to the city of Rosemead to legalize and consolidate the land use, which includes provisions for transitional and supportive housing, mental health services, early education, daycare, and spaces for religious and recreational activities.
Steve Gunther, who has been with Maryvale for 15 years, elaborated on their existing program, Seton House, which is a self-funded short-term housing initiative for single mothers with up to two children under the age of ten. Before admission, these mothers undergo an interview process and must adhere to certain standards and requirements to stay in the program. Over the past two years, Maryvale has supported up to nine mothers at a time, reporting no issues within the community during that period. Additionally, Maryvale operates an early childhood education center that can accommodate 120 children from birth to age five, reflecting their commitment to campus safety.
The transitional housing program is designed for homeless mothers who may stay for up to six months, with the possibility of longer stays in certain cases. From the outset, Maryvale’s primary focus is on helping each mother transition to permanent or stable housing. In the initial two years of the program, 74% of the mothers successfully achieved this goal. Part of Maryvale’s success can be attributed to providing not just safe housing, but also access to an early education center and community mental health services.
Addressing concerns about drug use on the premises, Gunther emphasized that mothers involved in the program must regularly meet with their case managers and participate in work or schooling. Upon returning to the campus, residents undergo bag checks, including inspections of wallets, diaper bags, backpacks, and open containers. Staff members also conduct regular room inspections to ensure that prohibited items are not present.
Gunther noted the significant success of the program, citing a 70% increase in the number of young women working towards their education while participating. One recent graduate moved into her own apartment, secured a job as a teacher’s aide, and continues her child’s enrollment in Maryvale’s early education program. He emphasized that Maryvale’s mission is to extend a helping hand, not to provide handouts.
Regarding the controversial aspects of the proposed land use and shelter for the homeless, Gunther clarified that the application submitted by Maryvale does not include plans for any new construction on the campus; it only seeks to renovate existing buildings. He expressed contentment with the current peaceful, park-like environment of the campus and plans to maintain it. Notably, Maryvale has no intention of operating a homeless shelter and the application does not request such provisions.
Gunther welcomes members of the community who wish to visit the campus and is eager to take every opportunity to share details about their programs and services. He looks forward to addressing the city council and the public on the 22nd.
Maryvale also operates two early education centers in Duarty and South El Monte, with an office in Duarty that provides mental health services to the community. Apart from the Rosemead campus, there are currently no plans for transitional housing elsewhere.
