Luther Towers I Receives Additional $2.8 Million to Complete Assisted Living Conversion Project

WILMINGTON, DE (Oct. 8, 2004) – Luther Towers I has received an addition $2.8 million from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to complete its assisted living conversion project, bringing the total received to $5.8 million, the Delaware congressional delegation announced today. In June 2002, the delegation wrote letters of support to HUD Secretary Mel R. Martinez for Luther Tower’s grant application for $3 million. The money was to be used to renovate up to 38 of the 231 apartments to make them licensed assisted living units. HUD awarded the money to Luther Towers, but once construction began, it was determined that an additional $2.8 million would be needed to complete the project. Working closely with HUD and the delegation, Luther Towers was able to secure the additional $2.8 million. The project is slated to be completed in 2005. “These additional apartments will allow many older Delawareans to live out their remaining years with two very important things — a sense of independence and a feeling of security,” said Senator Biden. “They deserve nothing less.” “This money will help us address many of the pressing needs in our community and will help seniors maintain a decent place to live,” said Senator Tom Carper. “With these new units, Luther Towers will help provide a quality support system for these seniors.” “This grant recognizes a growing trend in our communities, one which acknowledges and respects the desire of most people to remain independent as they live out the remainder of their lives. The addition of these 38 assisted living apartments will enable more of Delaware’s seniors to hold on to their independence, while affording them a sense of security that comes from knowing that should trouble arise, help is nearby,” said Congressman Castle. For more than 30 years, Luther Towers I and II have been providing over 300 exceptionally low-income seniors with secure and low-cost housing. Tenants in these assisted living apartments will be able to get transportation, cooking, and housing-keeping services.