The Primavera Foundation, Inc.

The Primavera Foundation is co-creating pathways out of poverty through housing, workforce development, homeownership and financial education, and community building and engagement.

Everyone deserves an equal opportunity to safe, affordable housing; employment; financial security; and a second chance. Everyone deserves tangible pathways out of poverty.

Founded in 1983 by Nancy Bissell and Gordon Packard, the Primavera Foundation began as a response to the growing numbers of people who were experiencing homelessness on the streets of Tucson. Guided by the principle that every human being has intrinsic worth and deserves to be treated with compassion, Primavera began working to address the systemic causes of homelessness through advocacy, service, and community education. Today, Primavera continues this proud tradition by promoting social and economic justice while working to build a future in which all people are assured basic human rights, a livable income, and safe, affordable housing.

The four areas of vital support SURVIVAL, STABILITY, SECURITY, and SUSTAINABILITY are made possible through partnerships with volunteers, donors, neighborhoods, community-based organizations, businesses, and the public sector.

Participants benefit from our following programs in these areas (be sure to review all of our programs listed in the "Programs" area of this AZ Gives Day profile):

• Emergency Services
• Eviction Prevention
• Affordable Rental Housing
• Primavera Works Staffing Service
• Civil Rights Restoration
• Financial Education & Empowerment
• Homebuyer Education & Homeownership
• Neighborhood Revitalization
• Community Building & Engagement

We serve people who are:
• experiencing homelessness or are at-risk of becoming homeless
• escaping unsafe living conditions
• veterans
• struggling to afford safe housing
• hard-to-place workers
• seeking temporary employment
• ready for financial stability
• first-time homebuyers
• motivated to create change for themselves, their families, & their communities
• budding community leaders

Testimonials

Elaine:
In just one year, Elaine, a single mother of five children, learned how to manage her finances, save money, and improve her credit rating. She believes it was her Mother's Day gift from Primavera when she received vital financial assistance, allowing her to purchase her first home for her family. All of her children enjoyed learning about financial empowerment and completed the Her Family financial education classes, too.
~ Former participant of HomeOwnership

Chris :
Back in 1995, Chris was a troubled young adult who discovered a passion for the cabinetry trade, thanks to two years of dedication through our original workforce development program, Primavera Builders. 24 years later, he stopped by Primavera Works to inquire about hiring current program participants for his own cabinetry business, Escalante Kitchen & Bath, LLC, with a desire to give back by inspiring others to be their best in life.
~ Former participant of Primavera Works

Samantha :
"Primavera made me feel so confident as a veteran and a single mom of a three-year-old. They were so positive and helpful to me. I have a home now and I'm not struggling anymore. It's a blessing, truly!"
~Primavera Project Action for Veterans participant (Hospital Corpsman Third Class, U.S. Navy)

Bonnie Kay:
"I give to Primavera because it's the most impactful multi-part agency that helps to end homelessness. The issues are magnified for vulnerable women--many in their 50's and older. It is unimaginable to me to think of being a 60-year-old woman experiencing homelessness. Many of these women have been in abusive relationships and lack options. The biggest common denominator is the lack of family support; having a safe place to go. That's why I particularly support Casa Paloma, the women's hospitality center and residence. "
~Primavera donor

Paul Gold:
"My Primavera Cooks! tour of duty began when a friend suggested we cook together at Pastiche. He said, 'I know you love to cook and it's for a great cause.' Right he was, and that recipe has worked for me from year one forward. The culinary experience has been valuable and fun, and indeed, it makes me feel I'm doing something effective in the community. Every year I cook in a new kitchen, plus I also participate as a diner in at least one other event. Thanks, Primavera!"
~10-year Primavera Cooks! apprentice chef (2019)

Adriana Kong Romero:
"Even in the strongest of economic times, many of us are just one life event away from falling into poverty or needing shelter. That is why Bank of America works with community partners like the Primavera Foundation, which takes a holistic approach to help our most vulnerable populations get back on stable footing. Primavera's programs addressing homelessness, affordable housing, and workforce development have demonstrated meaningful and lasting results that create pathways to economic mobility for thousands across the Tucson community...