Sertoma Centre is a nationally accredited, not-for-profit agency that provides services to individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities including mental illness. They are planning their second multi-family residence in the South Suburbs.
According to an article in Patch, permanent supportive housing is designed to increase housing opportunities for people with disabilities.
Residents in this multi-family building will receive the following benefits:
- Social support and counseling
- Job training and placement
- Assistance with grocery shopping
- Bill management
Sertoma's first supportive housing development opened in 2016 in Homewood, Illinois.
This multi-family residence will allow adults with disabilities to live independently while receiving personal support through Sertoma's programs.
The complex will feature the following:
- 13 one-bedroom units
- 3 two-bedroom units
- Each with its own kitchen, bathroom and living space
- Community outdoor patio area
- Laundry room
- Secure entry
- On-site support services from Sertoma Centre
The building will be located at 14205 S. Union Street and offers access to stores, pharmacy, restaurants, parks, recreation, public transportation and library. It is expected to be completed by next fall.
The Chicago Tribune reports that Sertoma Centre Executive Director, Gus van den Brick stated that people with disabilities only want a job and a place to call home.
Support for this project is being provided by the Illinois Housing Development Authority, Cook County Department of Planning and Development, and The Housing Authority of Cook County. Housing programs like this project support the state's efforts to remove obstacles to safe and affordable housing to improve the quality of life for individuals with disabilities.
