Originally published by Racine County Eye.

RACINE, WI — Seniors in the Racine area seeking affordable housing should start their search early and join waiting lists promptly to secure a spot.

The HOPES Center, a Racine-based nonprofit, provides services for people experiencing homelessness or at risk of becoming homeless. Services are offered at its office at 521 Sixth Street, on the streets at night, and at remote locations.

The organization also maintains a list of subsidized apartments for seniors and individuals with disabilities. Each complex has specific requirements and may impose restrictions based on credit, rental, and criminal histories. Many residences have waiting lists due to the high demand for affordable housing.

“If you are eligible for subsidized housing and meet the requirements, we recommend that you apply immediately to get onto any waiting lists,” the HOPES Center website advises.

Jen Hoaglund, a realtor with The Blackstone Realty Group, said her team typically works with baby boomers looking to downsize or transition into senior living communities. However, they do not assist with placement, waitlists, or costs for such facilities.

Hoaglund noted that housing demand continues to outpace supply, creating challenges for renters.

“The housing shortage is an ongoing issue, one that seems to be increasingly recognized by local authorities,” she said.

Affordable Housing For Seniors In Racine

Here is a list of some of the apartment complexes or non-profit organizations that offer affordable housing for seniors in Racine:

Clare Meadows: one- and two-bedroom apartments for people with mobility-related disabilities. More information is available here.
Durand Plaza: Durand Plaza has one-bedroom apartments for seniors and people with disabilities. You can call for an application to be mailed to you: 262-554-1250. You can also visit the rental agent at Durand Plaza, 3003 Durand Avenue. According to the HOPES Center website, Durand will not rent to anyone who has had an eviction in the last five years, owes past utilities, has had a misdemeanor in the past five years and/or a felony in the past 10 years.
The Home Company (Rosenthal Associates): There are one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments available at locations in Racine for individuals and families. You can call for more information: 414-362-7240.
Lutheran Social Services has two complexes with subsidized units in Racine, which are meant for people with chronic mental illness. You can get more information on South Willows complex here and more on its Willow Woods complex here.
Oak Ridge Care Center is family owned and operated with services in Union Grove. They provide skilled nursing, long term care, and rehabilitation. You can find more information here.
St. Monica’s Senior Living provides a forever home to seniors. You can reach them at 262-639-5050. Learn more here.
Parkview Gardens Senior Living Community is a large senior living community in Northern Racine which aims to maintain independence for their residents. Parkview Gardens can be contacted at 262-804-8094.

You can find a full list of subsidized housing options for seniors on the HOPES Center website.

Amie SchaenzerArticles

Affordable housing tips for Racine seniors

Amie SchaenzerArticles

Affordable housing tips for Racine seniors