Building Type: Upper West Side

The Marseilles, WSFSSH’s inaugural project, was originally constructed in the early 1900s as a luxury residence hotel.. Following World War II, it served as a resettlement site for displaced Eastern European Jews under the auspices of the Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society (HAIS). However, by the mid-1970s, the building lay abandoned and in disrepair. Recognizing its potential, WSFSSH embarked on acquisition negotiations with Bankers Trust, eventually acquiring the property. Renovations commenced in November 1978, transforming the space into 134 apartments catering to low-income seniors and individuals with disabilities. The Marseilles officially opened its doors on July 9, 1980, offering a mix of one-bedroom and studio units for those with very limited incomes. From its inception, the building has provided on-site social services, despite the absence of mandated funding at the time.

Originally constructed as luxury housing, Euclid Hall struggled to compete with more opulent apartments in the Upper West Side area. During World War II, it served as a residential hotel for affluent individuals. By 1989, it had deteriorated into a notorious site for crime. WSFSSH purchased the building with the aim of restoring it as safe and affordable single-room occupancy housing. When renovations began, the neighborhood initially expressed concerns and misinformation, but WSFSSH’s commitment to transparency and community involvement gradually shifted perceptions. Today Euclid Hall provides permanent housing and hosts WSFSSH administrative offices.