Bel Aire low-income housing complex aims to address senior housing shortage

BEL AIRE, Kan. (KSNW) – An affordable senior living complex opened on Friday in Bel Aire, but before doors opened, it was already full with a large waitlist.

Homestead Affordable Housing has launched 14 projects like this one across the state in an effort to meet the needs of low-income seniors looking for a place to live.

The one in Bel Aire has 36 units, which are already full. The non-profit now has 170 people on the waitlist, searching for an alternative.

Recognizing the growing need.

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“We’re doing everything we can to make the units more affordable rent,” said Homestead Affordable Housing President Tom Bishop.

Bishop said their 14 properties in Kansas provide the opportunity for low-income seniors to live comfortably.

“The lowest targeted rent is 30% of area median income. For one bedroom, I think that’s $305 a month,” said Bishop.

George and Regina Wilson were the first ones to move into the property. They said their former homeowner raised the rent, and they could no longer afford the monthly payment.

They said they are now thankful to have their new community in Bel Aire.

“It really took the stress away. When they put that key in our hand, it was really a blessing,” said Regina Wilson.

Monica Cissell, with the Central Plains Area Agency on Aging, said multiple factors are causing stress on seniors to afford housing.

“As they grow older and maybe have more medical expenses or changes, maybe a spouse dies or an injury, can really change their income and impact the amount of money they have to pay for their rent or mortgage,” said Cissell.

The bishop believes the lack of housing will not be correctly addressed unless more communities like these are built.

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“Whether it’s here, or Haysville, or Kechi, these communities really do need affordable senior housing all around the state,” said Bishop.

He said they already have plans drawn up to add 36 more units to the Bel Aire property in the next year, but it will be dependent on approved state funding.

Bishop said, even if it goes through, it will hardly make a dent in the number of people they have waiting.

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