Meridian Health Plan and Centene Foundation Provide Substantial Grant to Enhance Affordable Housing in Chicago

Empowering Communities: A $2.2 Million Initiative for Affordable Housing

In a remarkable effort to tackle the pressing issue of affordable housing, the Meridian Health Plan of Illinois, in collaboration with the Centene Foundation, has announced a generous grant of $2.2 million to the Safer Foundation. This grant aims to facilitate the purchase and renovation of a 23-unit apartment building located at 146-150 N. Central Avenue in Chicago's South Austin neighborhood, set to provide much-needed housing for underserved individuals and families.

Founded over 50 years ago, the Safer Foundation has established itself as a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting individuals reentering society after incarceration. This new initiative not only adds to their portfolio of affordable housing but also focuses on those transitioning from institutional or supportive care environments.

Renovations for the building are already underway, having recently included essential exterior cleaning and security gate repairs. Future refurbishments will encompass critical updates to the building’s infrastructure, such as security enhancements, structural repairs, and modernizing essential utilities like HVAC systems and electricity. More importantly, the apartments will feature updated kitchens and bathrooms, fresh paint, and new flooring, making these units not only affordable but high-quality homes.

The 23 units will consist of 15 one-bedroom apartments, four two-bedroom units, and four three-bedroom units designed to cater to various family sizes. Safer Foundation aims to maintain these units as permanent affordable housing options, with several allocated specifically for justice-involved individuals, such as participants from their Colbert Williams program.

As the pressing need for affordable housing in Chicago continues to grow, highlighted by alarming statistics from the City’s Point-in-Time count revealing a significant rise in homelessness, the collaboration between Meridian and Safer Foundation becomes increasingly vital. In 2024, for instance, the count reported 18,836 homeless individuals, marking a stark increase from previous years. This troubling trend underscores the importance of initiatives like this, which aim to provide stability and support to those in need.

Cristal Gary, President and CEO of Meridian Health Plan, emphasized the urgency of addressing the housing crisis. “There is a clear and growing shortage of affordable, accessible housing—especially in Cook County,” she stated. “By partnering with Safer Foundation, we’re not just expanding housing; we’re delivering a comprehensive, strength-based model that meets people where they are and helps them build toward long-term stability.”

Victor Dickson, President and CEO of Safer Foundation, echoed this sentiment, showcasing how the financial support from Meridian and the Centene Foundation enables them to advance their mission. “Stable housing is one of our most fundamental needs,” said Dickson. “Without it, individuals and families face immense challenges in leading productive lives.”

Prospective residents interested in Safer Foundation’s affordable housing can either be referred by program navigators or directly apply for housing support by calling their dedicated number. The application process entails formal screening to ensure qualified candidates are prioritized.

As the city and various organizations grapple with rising homelessness and housing instability, partnerships like these serve as a beacon of hope. With initiatives focusing not only on providing shelter but also on supporting individuals in their reintegration into society, there lies the potential for substantial social transformation.

For further details regarding Meridian’s commitment to community impact and their efforts to support local organizations addressing health-related needs, you can visit their official website. By investing significantly in the essential infrastructure of affordable housing, they are paving the way for numerous individuals and families to thrive and regain stability in their lives.