Permanent Supportive Housing

Ron’s Story

“Getting outside again is amazing,” said Ron, who regained his independence in 2015 with help from Home First. As the result of a tragic accident in 1988, Ron was paralyzed from the neck down, leading to 27 years of nursing home life. Now, living in his own apartment in Chicago’s western suburbs, he savors this freedom that provides security, comfort and peace of mind.

“When you’ve got those three things, you have a home,” said Ron Smith. “I would love others to feel the joy I feel now. I hope my story helps other people in similar situations find their freedom and find their home.”

Don’t underestimate the simple pleasure of fresh air and a blue sky. And with his newfound independence, it’s fitting that one of Ron’s favorite moments was watching 4th of July fireworks from his balcony. Now, despite his physical limitations, the unstoppable 52-year-old’s goal is to work from home as a part-time telemarketer.
 

“I would love others to feel the joy I feel now. I hope my story helps other people in similar situations find their freedom and find their home,” said Ron

Home First funds the acquisition, renovation and leasing of condominium units to assist people transitioning from nursing homes to the community.  While this program has made it possible for Ron to dream big, Home First is a reality because of the $15 million in capital funds that IHDA provided to the IFF to finance the initiative.

As the state’s affordable housing arm, IHDA has used federal funding from Money Follows the Person to transition people from long-term care to community- based settings.

IHDA’s supportive housing programs link residents to an array of services that make it possible to free them from institutional care. As you can see, supportive housing provides more than housing; it provides freedom. Through supportive housing, that state’s most vulnerable residents now have an opportunity to live with security, comfort and peace of mind.