Ecumen’s Affordable Community Features 11 Units Designated for Veterans in Need of Housing

By Angie Andresen | March 31, 2023

The Hillock - exterior photo of the main entrance
The Hillock | an Ecumen Living Space — Affordable Independent Living for Seniors 55+

MINNEAPOLIS, MN (March 31, 2023) — Nestled in the Longfellow neighborhood, one of Minneapolis’ newest affordable housing communities for older adults — The Hillock — began welcoming its first residents in late 2022. Interest continues to grow in the community, which has convenient access to Minnehaha Park, trails, stores and light rail. Driving excitement is a current move-in special offering one month free for those moving in by April 30.

“We are busy giving tours and processing applications every day,” said Nichole Vesperman, The Hillock’s Housing Manager. “It’s clear that there is a real need for high-quality affordable housing for older adults that’s in a safe, accessible location. The response has been phenomenal.”

Developed by Ecumen, the community sits on a three-acre parcel that formerly housed the City of Minneapolis Public Works maintenance yard. It is managed by Ecumen, one of the leading senior care and service providers in the country.

Eleven of the apartments are designated for Veterans in need of housing.

“The Hillock is the type of project that is so central to our mission and vision that every older adult has a home with innovative services to live the life they choose,” said Shelley Kendrick, Ecumen president and CEO. “It’s exciting to see this community take shape and to witness our mission in action.”

Beautifully designed apartments in 14 different floor plans are available to qualifying seniors age 55 and older earning 50-60 percent of the Hennepin County Area Median Income. Other amenities include a fitness center, community room and community garden.

Unique to The Hillock is an on-site clinic space that will open later this spring. Staffed by Southside Clinic, practitioners will be determined based on the needs and desires of the residents.

“The clinic is a feature that our residents are really excited about, and particularly because it’s being designed to suit their needs,” Vesperman said. “We’re excited to have expertise and care — from everything from nutrition needs to blood pressure checks and dental visits – right here in our community.”

The Hillock is the first phase in creating a 100 percent affordable, intergenerational campus at the location. Phase two will be a 90-unit affordable family housing building.

To schedule a visit or for more information about The Hillock, visit ecumen.org/theHillock or call 612-424-8983.

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About Ecumen

Ecumen is a nonprofit provider, developer and operator of award-winning living spaces and innovative technology and services for older adults. Mission-driven since its founding in 1862, Ecumen’s legacy of service is a reflection of a commitment to honoring those it serves. Ecumen is based in Shoreview, Minn., and operates properties and services in multiple states, and provides new development, management and consulting services. Housing options include cooperative living, independent living, assisted living, memory care, short-term rehabilitation and long-term care communities. Its diverse in-home and community-based services include home care, hospice, physical and occupational therapy, adult day services, technology products and an online durable goods medical store. For more information, visit ecumen.org.