June 26, 2025

For Immediate Release

San Mateo — After years of moving from one unstable housing situation to the next, Noemi Perdomo dreamed of a place she could call home and neighbors she could connect with. 

She found both when she moved into Kiku Crossing, a new affordable housing complex in downtown San Mateo with units set aside for people like her, people who have lived on the margins and face challenges with learning differences. Kiku is the Japanese word for chrysanthemum. 

“This is my first experience living completely independently. When I moved in, I wasn’t sure what to expect. But right away I started connecting with people,” Perdomo, pictured, said. “Now this means community, family. I don’t have the correct words to express. I just have to say it’s a special place for me to call home.” 

Perdomo was among the featured speakers today at a grand opening celebration held in Kiku Crossing’s courtyard, next to a colorful play structure under a gentle June sun. She joined local officials in cutting the ribbon on one of the largest fully affordable housing projects built in San Mateo County to date. 

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