Lt. Governor Skillman Announces New Housing Solution for Elderly

INDIANA - On Tuesday, September 18,  Lt. Governor Becky Skillman visited Georgetown, Indiana to announce and break ground on an innovative new housing alternative for Indiana’s elderly population. The Villas of Guerin Woods will allow seniors to move out of traditional retirement institutions and age in a facility designed as a fully accessible home.  The new housing project is the result of a partnership between the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority (IHCDA) and Guerin, Inc.

“Seniors are the fastest growing segment of Indiana’s population,” said Lt. Governor Becky Skillman. “They deserve affordable housing options to call home beyond the traditional retirement home.  The Villas of Guerin Woods gives seniors the opportunity to live independently yet still have the care they require.”

The Villas of Guerin Woods will consist of individual homes designed to accommodate ten residents. Each person will have their own individual bedroom and bathroom, but will share common areas such as an open kitchen, a living room, a large dining area, a small den, and an enclosed outdoor space.

“We wanted to introduce an innovative opportunity to move seniors out of institutions and into real home settings where they can enjoy their golden years

,” said Sherry Seiwert, Executive Director of IHCDA.  “I think this is a trend that states across the country are looking into as the senior population continues to grow.”

One funding source for this project is the Indiana Affordable Housing and Community Development Fund.  Since its inception, the Fund has provided nearly $20 million in loans and $1.5 million in grants, resulting in the development of more than 1,400 units of affordable housing.  This year, Governor Mitch Daniels signed legislation that provided the fund a dedicated revenue stream. The Villas of Guerin Woods is the first project to receive funding since the legislation was signed into law.

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