CLEVELAND — Later this year, Eliza Bryant Village will no longer operate its 99-bed skilled nursing facility due to rising costs and a sustainable business model. The nursing home will close on June 8.
"We know this is heartbreaking news for our residents and their families. It is for us too," said President and Chief Executive Officer Danny R. Williams. "But our current business model is simply unsustainable. Our costs have skyrocketed, admissions have fallen, Medicaid subsidies have failed to keep up with soaring care expenses, and the COVID-19 pandemic have all wreaked havoc with our finances and have forced us to make this regrettable decision."
Williams continued, "We have been a safe haven for Cleveland's elderly Black population since the 19th century. But we must evolve our organization to continue our mission. We are committed to providing the people we serve with outstanding care and programs in a dignified, compassionate and secure environment for seniors, their families and their caregivers."
Eliza Bryant Village will still operate its senior housing, home care, senior outreach, adult day services, community transportation, caregiver support groups and the Elder Justice Center, nonprofit said.
"We value each and every resident and truly want to help each of them find the best quality care in the Cleveland area to meet and exceed their needs. Also, we will work tirelessly to help our staff members and caregivers secure employment at other facilities," the nonprofit said.
Cleveland Ward 7 Councilperson Stephanie Howse issued the following statement regarding the nursing home's closure:
"Eliza Bryant Village’s decision to close its skilled nursing facility and relocate the approximately 74 current residents is a loss for the community. It is a Hough neighborhood institution, and is the oldest continually operating African American-founded long-term care facility in the United States.
I understand the financial headwinds faced by the organization. And I appreciate that they will work to ensure the seniors they transfer the best care possible, but for many it will be similar to losing their families. I commend them for their commitment to helping their employees secure new positions. It’s also commendable that they are continuing to offer their other services and programs including affordable senior housing, home care, adult day services, caregiver support groups and Elder Justice Center.
Council and the city has and will continue to work in partnership with the organization. It’s fragile economic situation has been a concern for some time and in 2018 the city forgave a $1.85 million balloon payment due later that year. The organization worked to turn its financial position around and make needed deferred maintenance. But it wasn’t enough.
As they 'reevaluate' their business model, we are all rooting that they get on secure financial footing. Once this is achieved, I would hope there could be a possibility of reassessing this decision with the idea to offer this service again. It’s a legacy worth saving."
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