COLUMBUS, Ohio (WSYX) — A new affordable housing community for seniors has opened on Columbus’ East Side, offering not only a place to live but also on-site support designed to connect residents with health care and other services.

Berwyn East Place, developed by National Church Residences, is an 88-unit affordable housing community for low-income adults 55 and older. The community was dedicated Tuesday morning.

City leaders said the development combines housing with health care in a way that is a first for the region.

Residents will be able to access supportive services, including help coordinating medical care and transportation, said Matt Rule, senior vice president of development at National Church Residences.

“They’ll have access to supportive services, case management, folks that can help them with their daily activities of life,” Rule said. “So that might be assistance with lining up a geriatric physician for their healthcare needs. That may be transportation needs that they have to get their doctor’s appointments or to get their groceries or to get to their church services.”

Susan DiMichele, president and CEO of National Church Residences, said the model is aimed at improving health outcomes by emphasizing preventive care.

“This type of model really helps to decrease emergency room visits and chronic conditions that can escalate without preventative care, and so preventative care is really a cornerstone here,” DiMichele said.

Lindie Miller, who moved in almost two weeks ago, said the cost has been a major benefit.

“I’ll say my, the rent is about 75% lower than where I was paying it,” Miller said. “So it’s a very affordable, like they say, affordable living.”

The opening comes as housing affordability remains a challenge for older Ohioans. According to the 2025 America’s Health Rankings Senior Report, nearly one-third of Ohio households with adults 65 and older face a housing cost burden, a problem often linked to financial strain and poorer health outcomes.

Supporters of Berwyn East Place said the approach could serve as a model for future developments, creating stability not only for older residents but for the broader community.