A once-vacant parcel in Houston’s Greater Third Ward has been transformed into an enclave of new duplex homes designed to provide low-income families, including those in crisis situations, with stability and a pathway to long-term housing solutions. 

Built at reduced costs through donated labor and discounted materials, the homes will be offered at rental rates up to 60% below market levels, making them both functional and affordable.

Developed through the collaborative efforts of HomeAid Houston, Agape Development, and Houston-based community builder Camillo Companies, the new community features eight duplex homes at the corner of Ward Street and Dumble Street. Each home was designed to combine comfort, functionality and affordability.

“This is more than new housing — it’s an investment in people,” said Dan Miller, CEO of Camillo Companies “Every home here represents stability, dignity, and the opportunity for families to build a brighter future. We are honored to play a part in making that happen.”

Agape Development, which acquired the property and continues to lead neighborhood transformation efforts in Greater Third Ward, will work with residents and local nonprofits to identify and support tenants. Families in crisis are referred through Agape’s educational, financial, and spiritual programs, though applications from the wider community are also accepted.

“We already feel the energy and excitement around this community,” said Kirk Craig, CEO & Co-Founder of Agape Development. “We’ve had strong interest and several inquiries from families eager for affordable housing. These homes are about creating stability, opportunity, and connection within this neighborhood.”

The collaborative effort also is the first affordable housing community by HomeAid Houston, which partners with GHBA builders to provide housing for those at risk of homelessness. By working closely with Camillo Companies and its network of subcontractors, the team was able to deliver high-quality homes efficiently and cost-effectively, ensuring families move into spaces built with care and long-term durability in mind.

“These homes are a tangible expression of what collaboration can achieve,” added Carole Brady, Executive Director of HomeAid Houston. “We are proud to work alongside Agape Development and Camillo Companies to bring real, lasting solutions to families who need them most.”

Go to HomeAidHouston.org to learn more about HomeAid Houston and its efforts to address homelessness in the Houston area.

About Camillo Companies 

Camillo Companies exists to open doors to greater opportunities for all people. For more than 30 years, the company has led the way in constructing premier communities featuring affordable homes and residences that maximize style, livability, and functional floorplan designs. It is one of Texas’s largest privately held real estate development and construction companies. 

Camillo Companies is a vertically integrated operation consisting of four primary entities, including Retail (Legend Homes and Princeton Classic Homes), Residences (SimplyHome), Land Development (Academy Development), and Maintenance (LCI Services). Through these operations, Camillo Companies has constructed more than 30,000 homes and residences in the Greater Houston, Dallas-Fort Worth, San Antonio, and Bryan-College Station areas, establishing a standard of exceptional customer service and attainability. 

To learn more, visit camillocompanies.com.