Cinnaire is proud to announce that two developments it supported with financing have been named finalists in the 2026 Affordable Housing Finance (AHF) Readers’ Choice Awards, one of the affordable housing industry’s most recognized honors. The McDaniel Apartments in Jackson, Michigan, and Oshki-Gakeyaa in Minneapolis, Minnesota, were selected for their innovative design, community impact, and commitment to expanding access to high-quality affordable housing.
Permanent Supportive Housing Finalist: McDaniel Apartments
Developers: Andy’s Angels and Milner & Caringella, Inc.
Named in honor of Cinnaire President and CEO Mark McDaniel, McDaniel Apartments expands Michigan’s pioneering Permanent Recovery Supportive Housing model, providing 26 deeply affordable homes for families recovering from opioid and substance use disorders. Located in Jackson, Michigan, the development builds on the success of Andy’s Place by connecting residents with stable housing and recovery support services during the critical period following treatment.
Designed with families in mind, McDaniel Apartments creates opportunities for parents and children to remain together while rebuilding their lives. By combining permanent housing with on-site recovery services, the development supports long-term recovery, family stability, and healthy childhood development. The project demonstrates the lasting impact of innovative partnerships and housing solutions that strengthen communities for generations.
Click here to vote for McDaniel Apartments
Urban Finalist: Oshki-Gakeyaa
Developer: Minnesota Indian Women’s Resource Center
Oshki-Gakeyaa, meaning “New Way,” is a 24-unit permanent supportive housing community developed to advance housing stability for Native individuals and families in Minneapolis. The development transformed underutilized space within MIWRC’s existing building into deeply affordable homes while bringing housing and culturally grounded supportive services together under one roof.
Financed through a collaborative public-private partnership including the City of Minneapolis, Hennepin County, Minnesota Housing, UnitedHealth Group, Minnesota Equity Fund, Greater Minnesota Housing Fund, and Cinnaire, Oshki-Gakeyaa transformed underutilized space within MIWRC’s existing building into 24 deeply affordable homes paired with culturally responsive supportive services. Residents benefit from immediate access to trauma-informed, culturally responsive services, as well as proximity to transit, healthcare, employment opportunities, and community resources. Through thoughtful reinvestment and strong community collaboration, Oshki-Gakeyaa creates pathways to stability, healing, and long-term success while addressing longstanding housing inequities affecting Native communities.
Click here to vote for Oshki-Gakeyaa
Senior Finalist: Harken
Developer: CommonBond Communities
Harken is helping address the growing need for affordable senior housing in St. Paul, Minnesota, providing 60 deeply affordable homes where older adults can age with stability, dignity, and connection. Developed by CommonBond, the community is part of Highland Bridge, the transformative redevelopment of the former Ford assembly plant site along the Mississippi River, bringing new housing opportunities to one of the region’s most significant mixed-use neighborhoods.
Thoughtful design, supportive services, and strong partnerships are at the heart of Harken’s success. Residents benefit from spaces designed to foster connection and access to services that support health, wellness, and long-term housing stability. The development was made possible through collaboration among Minnesota Housing, the City of St. Paul, Ramsey County, the Metropolitan Council, Minnesota Equity Fund, Greater Minnesota Housing Fund, Cinnaire, and the St. Paul Public Housing Authority, demonstrating the power of partnership to create communities where seniors can truly thrive.
