More than 300 people gathered on Thursday, June 25, to mark the official opening of Jericho Village, a new affordable housing project in Wylie. The event honored the individuals and organizations that contributed to the development, which city officials and organizers describe as a long-term initiative to provide stability for residents.
Jericho Village is located at 511 W. Brown St. and stands as Wylie’s first income-based urban housing village. The 38-unit complex is a project of the Agape Resource & Assistance Center, a Plano-based organization. The center was established by CEO Janet Collinsworth to assist women and families who have experienced homelessness, domestic violence, or human trafficking.
The development includes studio through three-bedroom apartments, with some units designed to be ADA-accessible. On-site services include education, counseling, and other support programs aimed at fostering long-term stability.
Wylie is about 10 miles southeast of Allen.
The celebration included food vendors, face painting, and a ribbon-cutting ceremony hosted by the Wylie Area Chamber of Commerce. Jon Bailey, executive director of Hope for the Cities, served as the master of ceremonies. Bailey highlighted the perseverance of Collinsworth, noting that many attendees had witnessed the project evolve from an initial concept into a realized community.
Wylie Mayor Matthew Porter shared his initial impressions of the project after taking office. He noted that the name Agape resonated with him due to a family heirloom bearing the same Greek word, which signifies unconditional love. Porter stated that the community has a responsibility to care for all residents, not just specific groups.
He emphasized that the village offers more than housing, providing services designed to help residents build lasting stability rather than offering temporary relief.
