YOUNGSTOWN - The Persayus Way Project has announced its plan to develop seven to 14 homes on Youngstown's East Side. The affordable housing project also seeks to fund college tuition for students living under those rooves. 

Persayus Way CEO Million Perry Phifer told 21 News that the project aims to build high-quality, affordable homes that give families a solid foundation.

"We want to strengthen neighborhoods, provide stability for youth, and create an environment where people can grow, heal, and rebuild their lives with dignity," Phifer said.

On land secured in 2022, the nonprofit plans to build up to 14 homes, depending on funds. These homes will be in Ward 2 of Youngstown, specifically along Gray Avenue, Armstrong, and Colby Avenue. The nonprofit aims to break ground on the development before the end of 2027 with the first three-bedroom home also completed in that year. Additional homes will then be built in phases, Phifer said, calling the project "a long-term community investment."

Through the development, Persayus Way is looking to establish a cycle of housing, education and generational opportunity. Helping fund college tuitions is a crucial part of the plan, Phifer added.

"Once a home is paid off, a portion of the accumulated funds will give the child of the household or the family under that roof, depending on the circumstance a full ride to college," Phifer said.

The CEO also told 21 News that the nonprofit is hoping to help transform the local community, through stable housing and educational support.

"This project is not just about construction," Phifer said. "It's about creating a system that builds hope, stability, and long-term success."

The work is already in the planning stages and next steps include architectural drawings, final city approvals, securing full project funding, and beginning infrastructure work on the property.

A purely community-driven project, Phifer said Persayus Way welcomes donations, shared resources or any other contributions that help the development get off the ground.

"We welcome volunteers, partners, and supporters who want to be part of building something meaningful," the CEO said. "Every contribution, large or small, brings us one step closer to transforming these empty lots into safe, stable, beautiful homes for our families. Together, we can build something powerful for Youngstown’s future."

Persayus Way is set to launch a GoFundMe and Givelify account dedicated to fundraising for the development in the coming days. The nonprofit is currently releasing updates and announcements about the project through its Facebook page.

Phifer says any funding left-over from building each home will be reinvested into the local community. The money will support the building of additional properties and support the education of families living in the homes.