The PNC Foundation has awarded the FSL (Foundation for Senior Living) a $20,000 grant to assist in the implementation of a resident services program that will provide support at four affordable housing communities, helping vulnerable residents continue to live independently and age safely in place.
“We are thankful for the support from the PNC Foundation as we implement these resident services,” said Tami Bohannon, president and CEO of FSL. “As we see an increase in homelessness in Arizona, it is our goal to work with our current residents to avoid any situations that could put their health, wellness or home at risk.”
FSL has identified several residents who need an additional safety net and resources to maintain their independent housing. Property managers work to address these unique challenges and help residents avoid lease violations that could jeopardize their housing.
In addressing this need, FSL developed the resident services program that operates at Acacia Heights, 29 Palms, Spectrum Courtyard and Village on Roeser. It focuses on providing necessary support services for residents, developing programs and resources that support wellness, working with residents to understand lease requirements and house rules, advocating for residents and providing information on community services, and working as an intermediary between residents, often serving in a support role for them during difficult times.
“Safe and affordable housing is essential to building and preserving a strong community,” said Cathleen Walker, PNC regional president for Phoenix and Northern Arizona. “FSL understands that housing alone isn’t enough to sustain our families and communities through all of life’s stages. PNC is proud to support FSL’s commitment to providing staffed support to help our vulnerable seniors and adults with disabilities stay healthy, housed and independent.”
The grant from PNC Foundation will support the resident services coordinator role created to implement and operate the program. The coordinator works with residents and property managers to connect them to community resources that address the following: eviction diversion, financial literacy, hoarding, social isolation, technology applications, pharmacy discounts, smoking cessation, scam prevention, Medicare supplements/insurance coverage questions, food insecurity, transportation barriers, mental health and substance abuse counseling and disease prevention.
