Across from the Eugene LTD Station, the Olive Plaza apartment complex stands out at 12 stories tall amongst neighboring buildings. Built in 1979, the property is managed by Human Good, one of the largest nonprofit organizations specializing in senior living. 

Olive Plaza provides affordable rental housing to low-income seniors, with residents aged 62 years and older in 150 one-bedroom units. V Swan, Olive Plaza’s former assistant administrator, says that it has always been an affordable housing complex, and that at least two current residents have lived there since the early 1980s. 

Tenants pay rent based on their adjusted income and live independently. All other bills, including Wi-Fi, electricity and other utilities, are covered. 

Many of Olive Plaza’s residents were previously homeless, living in their cars or staying at the Eugene Mission. Olive Plaza’s annual picnic for its residents is Sept. 11, and donations for raffle prizes for residents are being sought. 

Swan says that residents are “incredibly grateful to have somewhere safe to lay their heads,” and that Olive Plaza is not just a home, but a place where seniors can find community. “They’re close, they’re family.”

The picnic typically happens every year but will be held for the first time since the apartment complex began a major renovation in January 2024.

During the renovation, tenants had to move out of their units in phases for about two months, staying at the Candlewood Suites hotel or with family members. Swan says that this was a difficult transition. “It was really hard on them, but they really enjoy the building now.” 

Now, the building has a new library and units are equipped with new flooring, cabinets, heaters and portable air conditioners. “It’s all so clean and it just looks refreshed,” Swan says. 

Residents will celebrate the new and improved Olive Plaza at the picnic, which is aptly themed “Home Sweet Home.” The picnic, which is for Olive Plaza residents only, will feature a raffle, where residents’ names are drawn and they can pick a gift from a selection of donated items. 

“Everyone gets something,” Swan says, “which means a lot to them. It makes them feel special.” She says. “They matter. Making people feel important is important.” 

In addition to the raffle, there will be pulled pork sandwiches for the residents and a performance by a band made up of a group of tenants. “It’s really fun, we have a lot of fun,” Swan says. “It’s such good energy, everyone’s happy, and it’s a beautiful thing.”

Call 541-683-3247 or email OPlAdministrator@humangood.com for more information on Olive Plaza.

This story has been updated. Olive Plaza is not accepting donations.