A partnership between the Valley’s healthcare system, that system’s fundraising arm, and the area’s affordable housing developer have announced plans to help solve the region’s housing crisis—for healthcare workers, at least.
St. Luke’s Health System (SLHS), St. Luke’s Wood River Foundation and ARCH Community Housing Trust (ARCH) said they will partner on the development of 12 three-bedroom single-family homes at Quigley Farms. Construction is slated for this fall and should wrap up in 12 months. St. Luke’s will provide funding for the construction while ARCH is contributing the land and will oversee construction.
The homes will be long-term rentals for St. Luke’s Wood River (SLWR) employees who meet criteria as determined by the hospital and the leases will stipulate that continued employment is a condition of housing.
“St. Luke’s Wood River currently has 69 vacant positions with a vacancy rate much higher than the three hospitals in our region. Nursing positions account for 28% of the vacancies. Despite offering significant financial incentives, the lack of available housing and the cost of living are frequently cited as the primary reason for declination of employment offers,” Carmen Jacobsen, the COO/CNO of St. Luke’s Wood River, said.
To help support housing for healthcare workers, visit www.slwrf.org or contact Megan Tanous at (208) 727-8444.