Two award statuesWe are truly honored to have received national recognition for the Washington County Emergency Housing Services Building (EHSB) at NAHRO’s 2026 National Conference in Denver!

The EHSB received an Award of Merit and an Award of Excellence in the Affordable Housing category, which distinguishes projects that produce or preserve affordable housing through creative financing and partnerships.

The EHSB is an innovative multifamily housing development that provides safe, dignified shelter for adults experiencing homelessness. Developed by the Washington County CDA in partnership with Washington County, Minnesota, the two-story facility includes 30 private, furnished rooms which prioritize privacy and dignity. The EHSB is located on the Washington County Government Center Campus, which removes barriers to accessing necessary resources to support transition to permanent housing.

About the Awards

The NAHRO Community Innovation Awards Program (previously the NAHRO Award of Merit Program) recognizes the achievement and innovation of NAHRO members, celebrates the successes of member agencies, and shares these innovations and best practices with others in the industry. The Awards of Excellence go to the best entries in each category from among the Award of Merit winners.

This year, 193 Awards of Merit and 17 Awards of Excellence were presented at the Community Innovation Awards reception at NAHRO’s 2026 National Conference and Exhibition in Denver, Colorado.

These recognitions highlight what’s possible when dedicated partners, creative thinking, and shared commitment to community come together. Congratulations to the CDA and its partners on a job well done!

— CDA Board of Commissioners Chair Temmy Olasimbo
October 2026

 
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