NYS SENATOR JEREMY COONEY, EPISCOPAL SENIOR LIFE ANNOUNCE STATE-FUNDED RENOVATIONS, SENIOR EXPANDED CARE IN HENRIETTA

(HENRIETTA, NY) - Today, Senator Jeremy Cooney (D-Rochester) and Episcopal Senior Life Communities (ESLC) announced $586,000 in state funding to renovate the Brentland Woods Living Community in Henrietta.

Grant funding will be utilized to purchase an emergency generator and essential infrastructure updates in accordance with Structural and Environmental Standards necessary to qualify as an enhanced assisted living provider with NYS - therefore expanding the opportunity for residents to age in place. With these funds, Episcopal SeniorLife Communities will also complete a lobby renovation project at The Episcopal Church Home to improve resident safety, quality of life and experience.

Upgrades will not only increase the safety and quality of life for current residents but will also allow ESLC to care for even more aging adults. At a time when costs of care are skyrocketing, ESLC provides luxury accommodations and best in class care at a middle market price point. In the current elder care landscape, an affordable option with a safe environment is invaluable to individuals and families in search of peace of mind and a home for their aging loved one. Expanded care will allow ESLC to meet this need at an even greater level.

I was proud to secure this new state funding because I want our community to demonstrate that we are not just going to talk about valuing our aging population; instead we’re going to invest in their long term care,” said Senator Jeremy Cooney. “I know from firsthand experience that Episcopal Senior Life provides an affordable care option that is desperately needed in our community, and provides an invaluable piece of mind to families looking for safe housing at a price point that is attainable. These renovations not only improve the quality of life for current residents, but will expand access to care to even more families in Rochester. I am truly grateful we have providers like Episcopal SeniorLife Communities in Henrietta, and that they are continuing to expand their impact across Monroe County."

“The renovations will be guided by ESLC’s mission of providing its residents with compassionate care, dignity and respect”, said Lisa Marcello, President & CEO of ESLC. “The core values of ESLC, which include fostering independence, promoting wellness and building strong relationships, will be reflected in every aspect of the renovation process. Senator Cooney’s connection to seniors and ESLC spans over many years - he volunteered as a young adult, a Board Member, Board Chairperson and family member as ESLC was given the opportunity to care for his mother and grandmother. I couldn’t be more grateful to receive this funding, and equally grateful for the time and continued dedication Senator Cooney has shown to Episcopal Senior Life Communities and seniors in our area, and I am most proud to call him my friend.”

Whelehan: “I want to express my sincere gratitude to a remarkable public servant who has shown immense dedication to being a voice in Albany - tirelessly advocating for issues that impact upstate New York and Rochester – and especially those that impact some of our most vulnerable residents – senior citizens”, said Kathleen Whelehan, Board Chair, ESLC. “Senator Cooney and I have a long history of working together on the Board of Episcopal SeniorLife Communities – we have a shared passion for the organization’s dedicated vision of creating programs and services that bridge the gaps in available options to seniors in our community. We are thrilled to see the impact of his generous grant funding on the seniors we are privileged to serve.”

“Every single day Lifespan gets calls from older adults looking for affordable housing so that they can remain in the community. In fact, it is the number one reason people call us,” said Ann Marie Cook, President & CEO, Lifespan of Greater Rochester. “With these upgrades, Episcopal Senior Life will continue to be a leader in providing safe and affordable housing with comprehensive services so that older adults can fully participate in all aspects of community living. I applaud Senator Cooney for always looking out for the needs of older adults in our community and for helping to secure this needed funding.”

“Helping keep options open that are clean, safe, and offer a great experience and quality of life is important for the Town because many residents are looking to downsize or move into senior housing facilities but want to remain in Henrietta when they do so,” said Steve Schultz, Town Supervisor, Town of Henrietta. “We look forward to the improvements this funding can bring to the Brentland Woods Living Community facilities.”