SAFE, AFFORDABLE HOUSING
We build better homes – and better lives.
People are living longer than ever before and most older adults will run out of money at some point in their lives. The majority of St. Mary residents rely on Social Security as their only source of income, with an average annual income of $15,000 annually, making them vulnerable to living in unsafe housing and neighborhoods. In fact, fifteen percent of our residents were previously homeless.
We start with affordable housing because we know a safe home is the foundation for a high-quality life. Our apartments are designed with older people in mind, and include features like zero-step entries, roll-in showers, and community spaces. They’re more accessible than 99% of housing in the country and allow our residents to age in their homes and avoid Medicaid nursing homes.
Beyond Housing: Helping Seniors Live Well
Healthcare Access:
On-site services in the communities where people live
The healthcare system is challenging enough for an average person to navigate. Our low-income residents often struggle to access government and nonprofit programs created to serve them.
Transportation is a significant barrier for our residents, as many have stopped driving or cannot afford to own or maintain a vehicle. Supportive Services staff actively seek transportation solutions to help residents attend healthcare appointments and bring healthcare partners into our buildings, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare. We also help residents take advantage of free community health programs and schedule home health services that allow them to stay happy, healthy, and independent.
Wellness & Nutrition:
Food programs and Health Prevention Education
At St. Mary Development, we work to ensure our residents have access to nutritious meals through partnerships with organizations like Homefull and Senior Resource Connection. Our in-house staff also provide evidence-based prevention education onsite to educate our residents on healthy lifestyle choices. By addressing food insecurity and promoting healthy habits, we help seniors maintain their independence and well-being.
Financial Stability:
We help older people achieve financial security.
Without access to affordable housing, older people with low incomes are faced with difficult decisions. After paying rent, they may have to choose between healthcare or food, a bus pass or the electric bill, refilling a prescription or keeping the heat on.
Our apartment rents are typically 20% to 40% lower than market-rate rents, and our units feature energy efficient appliances, meaning our residents also benefit from lower utility bills. Our Service Coordinators connect residents to free or reduced-cost transportation, healthcare, and other community services. Having access to these services dramatically improves our residents’ quality of life.
TECHNOLOGY AND EDUCATION
We equip older people with tech and resources.
Things that may seem simple to us often prevent older people from getting the care they need. Lack of knowledge about technology and the cost of internet access can stand in the way of a doctor’s appointment or connecting with a loved one.
Our Supportive Service’s staff introduce training opportunities on the latest technologies to improve residents’ lives: iPad classes from the local library, or how to use an Alexa device. We also offer technology education programs on topics like personal finance, avoiding fraud and scams, and navigating telehealth.
SOCIAL SUPPORT AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
We create social systems of care for our residents.
Older people need meaningful social relationships just like everyone else. But without a place to call home or the resources to connect with loved ones, they’re often left feeling isolated and hopeless.
Our apartment communities are built to encourage socialization. Community gardens, fitness rooms, media rooms, and meeting areas offer many opportunities for individuals to build new and lasting friendships through organized health educations, Bible studies, and community meetings, among other events.
