State Announces Approval of 18 New Supportive Living Facilities in Illinois

Facilities Allow Seniors, People with Disabilities Independence

CHICAGO, IL – February 10, 2010 – (RealEstateRama) — The Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) today announced the approval of 18 new Supportive Living Facilities (SLFs) in Illinois. The state’s Supportive Living Program offers an alternative to nursing home care for low income seniors, and people with physical disabilities.

“The expansion of the Supportive Living Program will result in additional high quality housing options for people who need long-term care, as well as economic development opportunities throughout the state,” said HFS Director Barry S. Maram. “The development of new SLFs will mean additional jobs – construction, facility staff – not to mention the potential for increased revenue for local businesses while supporting the states’ efforts to reform its long term care system.”

The Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services operates the Supportive Living Program for low-income seniors age 65 and older, and persons age 22 and older who have physical disabilities under Medicaid. SLFs offer residents apartment style housing combined with personal care, medication management and other health and wellness services. Residents can live independently and take part in decision making. Personal choice, dignity, privacy and individuality are all emphasized through the program.

“SLFs make a critical range of services available while providing individuals with more choices for care,” said Theresa Eagleson, Administrator of the state’s Medicaid program. “The quality of applications received in this solicitation was outstanding. Clearly, the market and consumer demand for this type of affordable housing with services model is strong.”

The state’s Medicaid program pays for a portion or all of the medical care for eligible residents. Residents are responsible for paying for their housing with Social Security or other personal funds.

Since Governor Quinn took office in Jan. 2009, 11 new SLFs have opened. There are currently 119 operational SLFs containing nearly 9,400 apartments located throughout the state.

For more information about the Supportive Living Program, please visit: www.slfillinois.com.

The following applications have been selected for participation in the SLF program: